Guest Columnist: Janet Caputo, PT, OCS Are you hyperflexible? Do people call you a contortionist? Are you the main attraction at parties, like Dominique DelPrete and Amy Simrell Mifka, because you entertain your friends by twisting your arms and legs in gross directions? Do you excel in dance and gymnastics because of your exceptional joint […]
Eating disorders among athletes is not uncommon, especially in the female athlete. This is the third of three columns on this topic. Athletes with eating disorders need referral to a health care professional.
Eating disorders are becoming epidemic in athletes. This is the second of three columns addressing this topic.
Over the past several years I have worked with many young female athletes that have suffered from injuries often associated with low body fat and poor bone density such as repeated stress fractures. In certain sports such as running and gymnastics this can be devastating. One thought that comes to mind is whether or not the young female athlete may also have an eating disorder.
Cheerleading includes gymnastics, tosses, partner stunts, and pyramid building. These challenges pose increased risk of injury. Injury prevention and safety precautions are essential help prevent injuries.
Since 1980, cheerleading progressed to include highly skilled and competitive athletes. Increased injury rates occurred in response to this evolution. Research indicates that injuries increased 110% from 1990 through 2002, while participation increased only 18%.
