Momentum Health is your Headquarters for Dancer Health.
Momentum Health was the Official Medical Team for the Alberta Ballet Company for 8.5 years.
Instead of waiting in the wings, take centre stage.
We understand common injuries in dance and how to prevent them. We want to be the team to keep you dancing without the fear of injury.
Ballet dancers, despite their high level of fitness, are prone to various injuries due to the physical demands of their art. Here are some of the most common ballet-related injuries:
- Ankle Sprains: These occur frequently, especially in ballet and modern dancers. An unexpected landing from a jump or a turn, improper alignment during demi-pointe or pointe work, or poorly fitted shoes can contribute to ankle sprains.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus), can result from repetitive movements and strain on the tendon.
- Shin Splints (Tibial Stress Syndrome): Pain along the shinbone (tibia) caused by overuse and stress on the lower leg muscles.
- Pulled and Torn Muscles: Ballet movements involve extreme flexibility and strength, making dancers susceptible to muscle strains and tears.
- Stone Bruise (Metatarsalgia): Continual landing of jumps, particularly on non-sprung floors, may contribute to swelling at the metatarsal head, or front of the foot. Discoloration is typically absent in a stone bruise.
- Anterior/Posterior Ankle Impingement: Compression of soft tissues in the ankle joint, leading to pain during movements.
- Snapping Hip Syndrome: Also known as “dancer’s hip,” this condition involves a snapping sensation in the hip joint due to tendon movement over bony structures.
- Hip Impingement: Abnormal contact between the hip socket and femur, causing pain and limited range of motion.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Knee pain resulting from improper tracking of the kneecap (patella) during movements.
- Back or Shoulder Pain: Dancers who are lifting in a pas de deux need to optimize their core stability and shoulder strength to prevent undue strain when lifting.
It is important to see a clinician that can develop a plan of care with goals specific to the strength, balance, joint mobility, and flexibility required to dance.
Ready to Meet The Momentum Health Dance Rehab Team?
Clinicians with significant experience in dance are at most of our locations. Here are a few
Kirsten Taylor
MPT, MClSc, BScHK, BSc (Honours)
Brittney Winnitoy
MPT, BFA, BSc (Honours)
Dr. Cory Wowk
MD, CCFP, Dip Sport Med
Alisha Mohamed-Kassam
Clinic Director, MPT, IMS Certified
Carlee Anderson
MPT, BKin, IMS Certified
Briana Campbell
MPT, MSc
Vicki Dancek
BScPT, FCAMPT
Susan Massitti
MPT, FCAMPT, RISP, IMS Certified, IMC
Dr. Andrew Moore
DC, BA, ART®
Heidi Osborne
Clinic Director, BScPT, IMS Certified
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