Playing a sport is the most popular type of physical activity, especially for younger people. Playing a sport requires different types of skills, competitive performance, and, of course, practice. Although sports have many benefits which include, enhancing your physical health, mental health, and social skills, they also tend to provoke many injuries. For girls, cheer and dance are very prone to high-risk injuries, most commonly sprains, fractures, tears, and concussions.

Cheer Coach Vicky had a big injury her sophomore year of high school that made her unable to perform for about nine months. She tore her ACL and was greatly affected by not being able to compete. When she
returned, she had to try even harder to catch up to the choreography already created. The recovery path is also very important and crucial to prevent future injuries.

“I was out for six to eight weeks and noticed how weak an ankle/foot can become,” sophomore Lauren Shortal said. “I had to go to physical therapy to strengthen my ankle/foot. I had to work extra hard in therapy and
also in dance to get back and prepare for performances and competitions.”

For a speedy and healthy recovery, it is always important to listen to a health professional. Many athletes suffer from later injuries because they made the poor decision of rushing the healing process against their doctor’s orders.

“I think that the biggest thing is that they have to follow their doctors, not how they’re
feeling,” Coach Vicky said.  “You will naturally feel like you’re okay, but you’re not okay, and you don’t understand the science behind it. From my personal experience, I came back a little too early, and that
definitely affected me. As a coach, I’ve seen kids come back a little too early, and it actually gets
worse for them, not better.”

Whether recovering from an injury or trying to prevent one, patience and professional
guidance are essential for a full recovery and success.