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Knee injuries in women linked to motion, nervous system differences

Scientists at Oregon State University found that men control nerve impulses similar to individuals trained for explosive muscle usage – like those of a sprinter – while the nerve impulses of women are more similar to those of an endurance-trained athlete, like a distance runner.

Women are more prone to knee injuries than men, and the findings of a new study suggest this may involve more than just differences in muscular and skeletal structure – it shows that males and females also differ in the way they transmit the nerve impulses that control muscle force.

Scientists at Oregon State University found that men control nerve impulses similar to individuals trained for explosive muscle usage – like those of a sprinter – while the nerve impulses of women are more similar to those of an endurance-trained athlete, like a distance runner.
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In the News:
The Daily Barometer, May 1, 2012
Wired, April 24, 2012
Statesman Journal, April 17, 2012
KTVZ News, April 17, 2012

Journal Article:
Spinal Motor Control Differences Between the Sexes

Faculty in this piece:
Sam Johnson