THE ART OF SCIENCE AND DANCE: TIPS ON HOW TO PREVENT DANCE INJURIES

All dancers have had some type of injury throughout their career.  Whether it is a pulled muscle, sprained ankle or complete knee reconstruction – we’ve all been there! 

Knowing it is a huge issue to our members, StageDoorAccess.com recommends The Art of Science and Dance – an interactive conference for the care and prevention of dance injuries presented by Cedar-Sinai and USC School of Theatre targeted to dancers in Los Angeles. 

In learning more about this event, it got us thinking…What causes dance injuries?  Which injuries are more common?  What’s the best way to prevent injuries?  After researching the topic, we found that the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) has all of the answers through their “Stop Sports Injuries” campaign.  Here’s what they have to say on the issue:

What are some of the most common dance injuries?

Across the whole spectrum of dance there is little doubt that the vast majority of injuries are the result of overuse rather than trauma. These injuries tend to occur at the foot/ankle/ lower leg, low back, and hip.

The foot/ankle/lower leg area is vulnerable to a wide range of injuries, including stress fractures, tendon injuries, sprains, and strains. These injuries show up with greater frequency in dancers as they age, so it is extremely important to emphasize what the young dancer can do to prevent future injuries.

What causes dance injuries?

Dancers are exposed to a wide range of risk factors for injury. The most common issues that cause dance injuries include:

• Type of dance and frequency of classes, rehearsals, and performances
• Duration of training
• Environmental conditions such as hard floors andcold studios
• Equipment used, especially shoes
• Individual dancer’s body alignment
• Prior history of injury
• Nutritional deficiencies

How can dance injuries be prevented?

Getting and keeping dancers free of injury in a fun environment is key to helping them enjoy a lifetime of physical activity and dance. With a few simple steps, and some teamwork among parents, teachers and medical professionals, dancers can keep on their toes and in the studio with a healthy body.

Dancers should remember a few key things to prevent injury:

• Wear properly fitting clothing and shoes
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Resist the temptation to dance through pain
• Pay close attention to correct technique
• Be mindful of the limits of your body and do not push too fast too soon
• Perform proper warm-up and cool-down

Get more information on the AOSSM Stop Sports Injuries campaign at www.stopsportsinjuries.org

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, don’t forget to check out the Art of Science and Dance conference!  Learn from top physicians and experts about the prevention of ankle and tendon injuries, secrets to hip and back pain and how to eat and drink healthy. Don’t miss this important opportunity for every dancer who wants a long and fruitful career!

Date:  Saturday, November 12, 2011
Time:  9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Location:  Harvey Morse Auditorium at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Click here for more details and the schedule of events
Click here to register now!