Researchers are taking a high-tech approach to understanding an ACL tear. The knee injury usually hits more females than males, and with the number of young girls playing soccer and other sports, the researchers are focusing on young female athletes.

One by one, sensors were carefully placed on soccer player Kelton McFadden from head to toe in a biomechanics lab at Boise State University. Computers, infrared cameras and a launching pad monitor McFadden's movements.

McFadden jumped on a plate as her exact image and movements were recorded and observed on computers.

Researchers can then determine if how she lands is putting extra stress on her knee.

"As it's shown right here, it's the reaction force as she hits the ground," biomechanic researcher Michelle Sabick said. "That gives us an indication of whether the ACL is getting a lot of stress."

McFadden, like so many other kids her age, is an athlete. She plays soccer and was told of the dangers of ACL injuries. Doctors said women are much more susceptible to ACL injuries than men.

"There's been a lot of research in the last eight, maybe 10 years, trying to understand that. Our lab is focused on trying to find out why women tear their ACLs," Dr. Kevin Shea, an orthopedist, said.

Shea is a doctor at Intermountain Orthopedics in Boise, Idaho. His practice sponsors the lab where McFadden was observed. Their research will help students and professionals better understand sports injuries and find ways to prevent them, officials said.

"There's a venture between a medical group and a university, neither of which are a medical school affiliate. They're working on this together," Shea said.

As the research continues, researchers will evaluate more athletes. McFadden said participating helps her get a jump ahead on understanding how to stay safe on the field.