Evolution and Future Directions of Sports Medicine Research Focused on Women

It is now recognized that males and females may present differently with similar diagnoses and /or respond differently to various treatments. This article outlines the history of research focused on women's health issues, with a specific focus on key research in sports medicine concerns in the active and athletic female. Recommendations for future strategies in research, including stratification of subgroups for all clinical results, will enable researchers and clinicians to translate research into clinical practice resulting in best patient care and improved outcomes for all.