Tao Li publishes three papers in Journal of Athletic Training special issue
Congratulations to Associate Professor Tao Li, who coauthored three papers published in the latest thematic issue of the Journal of Athletic Training. The issue focuses on health care economics and health information technology in sports medicine.
Li's study, "Return on investment of anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention programs in the United States," provides economic evidence supporting the widespread adoption of ACL prevention programs. His research demonstrates that these evidence-based interventions deliver an impressive 7-to-1 return on investment while reducing ACL injuries by approximately 50%.
The special JAT issue focuses on implementation science—the critical gap between research knowledge and real-world practice. Li's work addresses a fundamental challenge in sports medicine: despite proven effectiveness, ACL prevention programs remain underutilized in athletic settings across the United States. His research shows that simple, structured warm-up exercises incorporating strength, balance, and neuromuscular training can dramatically reduce one of sports' most devastating injuries.
ACL injuries affect an estimated 250,000 Americans annually, with each injury costing approximately $50,000 in medical expenses and often requiring 6-12 months of recovery. Beyond immediate costs, these injuries carry long-term consequences, including increased risk of osteoarthritis and chronic knee problems. Li's research quantifies not only the human impact but also the substantial economic burden, making a compelling case for prevention investment.
The featured research builds on Li's ongoing commitment to translating scientific evidence into practical solutions that protect athletes at all levels. By demonstrating clear economic benefits alongside health outcomes, his work provides athletic directors, coaches and policymakers with powerful justification for implementing prevention programs.
This recognition in JAT's special issue amplifies the reach of the College of Health's research within the athletic training community and underscores Oregon State University's leadership in sports injury prevention science.
College of Health graduate student Collin Peterson and professor Marc Norcross collaborated on the study.
The other two articles are:
Li T, Gallegos D. Health Economics: The New Language of Athletic Training Impact. Journal of Athletic Training. 2026; 61(1):1-3. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-0699.24
Peterson C, Li T, Norcross M, Johnson S. National estimates of nonurgent emergency department utilization for sports-related injuries in the high school-age population. Journal of Athletic Training. 2026; 61(1):29-37. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-0473.24