CHICAGO, Nov. 30, 2025 — A significant MRI-based study analyzing knee injury discrepancies between men and women has uncovered unexpected variations in injury patterns linked to gender and age. These discoveries, which offer potential for refining risk evaluations and creating early intervention approaches, are slated for presentation today at the scientific assembly of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
“Our interest in the variations of knee injuries observed between men and women has intensified recently,” stated Dr. Jenifer Pitman, M.D., an assistant professor of radiology at Johns Hopkins Medical Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, and a co-author of the study. She added, “While most prior research concentrated on men, extending our scope to women reveals distinct risk profiles and susceptibility to different types of injuries for them.”
This research involved 13,549 sequential, routine knee MRI examinations conducted from 2019 to 2024 across four outpatient radiology centers associated with Johns Hopkins Hospital. All participating patients presented with knee pain as their primary concern. From the radiology reports, the investigators identified the following characteristics: damage or tears to the medial and lateral menisci, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament, the medial collateral ligament (MCL), the lateral collateral ligament complex, and the extensor mechanism or patellofemoral dislocation.
The ACL, a crucial ligament within the knee, links the thigh bone to the shin and offers stability, particularly during activities involving twisting, jumping, abrupt stops, or changes in movement. ACL injuries frequently occur in sports and can lead to knee pain, swelling, and instability. Menisci are C-shaped cartilaginous structures located on the knee’s inner (medial) and outer (lateral) aspects, functioning as shock absorbers to cushion the joint and enhance stability. Meniscal tears can result from twisting trauma or gradual deterioration over time.
Upon analyzing the MRI reports, it became evident that certain injuries were more prevalent in men than in women. These included isolated ACL tears, ACL tears combined with a medial meniscal tear, or ACL tears alongside a lateral meniscal tear.
“We observed a higher incidence of ACL tears in men, particularly within the 20- to 40-year-old demographic, which contradicts existing literature,” stated Dr. Ali Ghasemi, M.D., a postdoctoral research fellow at Johns Hopkins and the study’s first author. He continued, “Previous research, primarily on sports-related injuries, indicated that young female athletes face elevated rates and a higher risk of ACL tears. Yet, our findings demonstrate a notably greater occurrence of ACL injuries in male patients across all age brackets.”
Dr. Pitman speculated that the divergence between their study and earlier research might stem from their expanded focus beyond solely sports-related knee injuries. The Johns Hopkins team examined all patients experiencing knee pain, irrespective of their age or the injury’s origin.
Overall, men presented with a higher total count of injuries.
Additionally, the investigators discovered that tears of the meniscus and MCL were more prevalent in men younger than 40 and in women of older age groups.
“Among younger patients, meniscal and MCL tears appeared more frequently in men, whereas for older patients, women exhibited a higher incidence of these tear types than men, which was unforeseen,” commented Dr. Ghasemi.
These results indicate that older women are more susceptible to injuries that contribute to progressive joint degeneration.
“Both genders should adopt preventive measures against high-impact injuries, particularly during athletic pursuits or physical exercise. Moreover, women, especially those over 40, ought to prioritize joint health and contemplate including targeted strength training to safeguard their knees as they mature,” advised Dr. Pitman.
An understanding of these injury patterns could assist radiologists and clinicians in customizing imaging protocols, risk evaluations, and early intervention plans to enhance patient results.
“The prevailing idea that ACL tears are more prevalent in younger women might not consistently hold true,” stated Dr. Pitman. She added, “Radiologists should also anticipate encountering more frequent meniscal issues and arthritis in older women.”
The research team is extending their inquiry into gender-specific knee injury patterns, examining demographic data and patient medical histories to gain deeper insights into these injury trends.
Dr. Pitman recommended that athletes think about collaborating with a healthcare professional to develop balanced musculature around the knee. She also urged individuals, particularly older patients, experiencing knee pain to consult their doctor.
“Should you be experiencing knee pain, do not simply dismiss it or ascribe it to aging,” she cautioned. “Specifically, we have observed increased rates of meniscal tears in women aged 40 and above.”
Additional co-authors include Shivani Ahlawat, M.D., and Laura M. Fayad, M.D.
Note: RSNA 2025 news releases and digital images will be accessible online at .
The RSNA represents an organization comprising radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and associated scientists. It champions superior patient care and healthcare provision via educational initiatives, research, and technological advancements. The Society’s headquarters are located in Oak Brook, Illinois. ()
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SOURCE Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)