Addressing disproportionate burden among women: early monitoring of symptoms after ACL injury to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis

Michigan State University received a $1.5M project grant from the Defense Health Agency's Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) awarded August 15, 2025, through August 14, 2029. The project, titled "Addressing Disproportionate Burden Among Women: Early Monitoring of Symptoms After ACL Injury to Prevent Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis," focuses on developing early monitoring and intervention strategies for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries with emphasis on understanding gender-specific health outcomes. The research aims to transform military healthcare by identifying innovative solutions for trauma-related musculoskeletal conditions affecting service members.

Under this award, Michigan State University and sub-awardee La Trobe University (Melbourne, Australia) will conduct a longitudinal clinical research initiative including participant recruitment and baseline assessment of 50 subjects, ultrasound imaging training and protocols, ethics coordination, and systematic data collection at 6-month, 12-month, 18-month, and 24-month intervals using standardized outcome measures (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score assessments). Additional deliverables include qualitative research through participant interviews, data analysis and curation, secure data sharing coordination, and dissemination of findings to advance understanding of post-traumatic osteoarthritis prevention in women following ACL injury.