The Cheer Athlete
The Cheer Athlete
Laura Turner
Episode 156: Back Pain in Cheerleaders and Cheer Parents: When to Worry, What to Watch For, and How to Move Better Naturally
18 minutes Posted May 14, 2026 at 12:42 am.
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Back pain can sideline a cheerleader… but it can also wear down the parents driving to practices, flying to competitions, and carrying all the gear.

In this week’s episode of The Cheer Athlete Podcast, I’m expanding the conversation beyond just the athlete—because healthy cheerleaders need healthy parents, too.

In this episode, we discuss:

✅ Common causes of back pain in cheerleaders
✅ When back pain might be serious (and when it may not be)
✅ The difference between muscle strains vs. stress injuries like spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis
✅ Why stretching alone may not solve the problem
✅ How mobility, stability, breathing, and motor control all play a role in pain relief
✅ Travel tips for cheer weekends, flights, and long car rides
✅ What cheer parents can do for their own hip and back pain

Whether you’re a flyer, base, coach, or cheer parent—this episode will help you understand pain differently and learn how to move better for the long haul.

🎁 Resources mentioned in this episode:
Injury Prevention Starter Kit
7-Day Hip & Back Relief Guide

Connect with Laura HERE

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Remember…
When in doubt, breathe out.