Back in 1898, a University of Minnesota student grabbed a megaphone and led a football crowd in a resounding cheer. He might be considered to be the first U.S. cheerleader, but his activities required no notable physical risk. When women took over the activity in the 1920s, they demonstrated more skill, but the risk of injury was still quite low.

Through the years, however, the physical challenges have increased significantly. Even though cheerleaders do not sustain as many injuries as players on the field, the severity of their injuries are often more pronounced.

Each Los Angeles accident attorney at our firm strongly believes that high school, college and professional sports teams need to take the same precautions and provide the same level of care for cheerleaders as they do for team members.

The Debate Between Cheerleading as an Activity or a Sport

When it comes to dealing with injuries, sports teams are held to a specific standard that focuses on safety during play or practice and helps to ensure that player injuries are handled properly from the moment they fall through the type of medical attention they receive.

Unfortunately, a debate continues across the U.S. about whether cheerleading is a sport or an activity. In some cases, injured cheerleaders may not receive the same degree of attention as their sports team counterparts.

When Governor Brown signed a law last November, designating high school cheerleading as a sport in California, he opened a door that allows cheerleaders to participate in a competition system. Most important, however, he ensured that cheerleaders can enjoy the same safety and treatment standards as the athletes they cheer for on the field.

Cheerleading Injuries Can Be Severe

Last December, CBS News ran an article about a study that showed cheerleading as ranking 18 out of 22 sports in terms of frequency. However, it ranked second, just behind gymnastics, in terms of severity. Common injuries sustained by cheerleaders include the following:

• Knee injuries involving ligaments or overuse
• Wrist injuries from falls that damage ligaments and bones
• Low back pain ranging from soreness to serious spinal injuries
• Head injuries, most commonly concussions

Some of these injuries can heal by receiving RICE treatment (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation). Others, such as injuries to the head or spine, can be catastrophic in nature, potentially leaving victims with long-term disability — or even permanent afflictions.

The new statute goes a long way toward helping to prevent some injuries, but it is important for parents to become aware of the written safety guidelines that protect their children and carefully monitor how well their children's schools observe those guidelines.

Even with standards in place, however, a serious injury merits a consultation with a lawyer who can help protect the rights of the entire family. Call The Rudman Law Firm at (844) 478-3626 / (844) 4RUDMAN, at our Los Angeles office at (213) 375-3777 or at our Studio City office (818) 769-6969.