Cheerleading is now one of the most popular sports that athletes from grade school to college are getting involved in. Cheerleading is fun and exhilarating with new skills to learn all the time. But with each added challenge also comes the risk of injury .Injury prevention is an essential component of any sport. There are several key points for injury prevention in cheerleading.

STRENGTHENING AND CONDITIONING
Most injuries in cheerleading are sprains and strains, with the most common being an ankle sprain. Poor overall conditioning plays a huge role in these types of injuries. Cheerleaders should participate in a year round conditioning program that consists of strength training, aerobic conditioning, and flexibility training.

PROPER TECHNIQUE/GOOD FORM
The best form of injury prevention is proper technique when executing skills. Proper landing technique helps in the prevention of knee and ankle injuries. Good form during routines promotes safety for all of the athletes involved in the performance. SAFE

ENVIRONMENT AND PROPER EQUIPMENT
A safe environment and proper equipment is essential when developing new routines and learning new skills. Mats or pads are important for the gradual progression of skills, especially those skills that are gymnastic-related. Repeated landing on hard floors leads to overuse injuries. Also, proper shoes should be worn while practicing and competing. Shoes should be well-fitted and cushioned.

CONCENTRATION
Most cheerleading injuries occur in practice. Loss of concentration in the practice environment is a contributor to these injuries. Focus is essential in athletics, especially during the execution of skills in cheerleading.

PROPER SPOTTING TECHNIQUE
The purpose of a spotter is to assist athletes in the development of new skills. Their primary responsibility is to decrease the risk of injury .Spotters also work to correct body position and form and help athletes develop confidence in the performance of the skill.

PROPER REHABILITATION AFTER INJURY
While no athlete wants to be sidelined for an injury, it is important that when injuries occur athletes are properly evaluated and treated. Failure to acknowledge an injury may allow for more harm to be caused.

SKILL AND ABILITY
Athletes should only work within their own level of ability. Advanced skills take time to master and athletes need to understand there is a natural progression to development of these skills. Even the best athletes acknowledge their limitations and work within their skill level in order to prevent injury.

Juliane Iannuzzi, P A-C
The Center for Advanced Sports Medicine, Knee and Shoulder
Summit, NJ
908-598-9199