Dancer's are predominantly reliant on flexible, mobile and healthy feet yet there are a few common foot injuries in dancers, particularly bunions. This is where the big toe tilts sideways towards the second toe and becomes painful, developing a bunion (lump sticking out) at its base. Putting excessive pressure on the affected area causes more pain, and tight footwear - such as pointe shoes, or even regular dance shoes - can increase this. To manage the problem the whole leg is affected. There are options of manual therapy, stretches and strengthening exercises for the feet, ankles, knees and hips, or surgery may be required.
Another condition (Hallux rigidus) is characterised by pain and the reduced ability to achieve a 90 degree angle at the joint between the big toe and the rest of the foot when the dancer is on demi-pointe. Forcing demi-pointes causes the joint surfaces to become irritated and bony spurs can develop on the bones. The condition can be aided through Cryotherapy (ice treatment), mobilisation and regular stretches to help in reducing pain and inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis, finally, is pain on the sole of the foot that is often worse in the mornings or after a strenuous exercise session. It is caused by an irritation and inflammation of the sole of the foot and it is often linked to dancing for long hours on hard floors. Rest, Cryotherapy, anti-inflammatories and manual therapy are all helpful in reducing the symptoms.
Dancers and common foot problems
The body is ultimately important to dancers; it's their instrument and without it would make dance very difficult. The feet and legs are particularly vital, so any problems with these body parts pose difficult for dancers in continuing with their work. It is important any ailments of the legs and feet are dealt with quickly and effectively as the feet and legs are constantly under pressure.
Dancer's are predominantly reliant on flexible, mobile and healthy feet yet there are a few common foot injuries in dancers, particularly bunions. This is where the big toe tilts sideways towards the second toe and becomes painful, developing a bunion (lump sticking out) at its base. Putting excessive pressure on the affected area causes more pain, and tight footwear - such as pointe shoes, or even regular dance shoes - can increase this. To manage the problem the whole leg is affected. There are options of manual therapy, stretches and strengthening exercises for the feet, ankles, knees and hips, or surgery may be required.
Another condition (Hallux rigidus) is characterised by pain and the reduced ability to achieve a 90 degree angle at the joint between the big toe and the rest of the foot when the dancer is on demi-pointe. Forcing demi-pointes causes the joint surfaces to become irritated and bony spurs can develop on the bones. The condition can be aided through Cryotherapy (ice treatment), mobilisation and regular stretches to help in reducing pain and inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis, finally, is pain on the sole of the foot that is often worse in the mornings or after a strenuous exercise session. It is caused by an irritation and inflammation of the sole of the foot and it is often linked to dancing for long hours on hard floors. Rest, Cryotherapy, anti-inflammatories and manual therapy are all helpful in reducing the symptoms.
Dancer's are predominantly reliant on flexible, mobile and healthy feet yet there are a few common foot injuries in dancers, particularly bunions. This is where the big toe tilts sideways towards the second toe and becomes painful, developing a bunion (lump sticking out) at its base. Putting excessive pressure on the affected area causes more pain, and tight footwear - such as pointe shoes, or even regular dance shoes - can increase this. To manage the problem the whole leg is affected. There are options of manual therapy, stretches and strengthening exercises for the feet, ankles, knees and hips, or surgery may be required.
Another condition (Hallux rigidus) is characterised by pain and the reduced ability to achieve a 90 degree angle at the joint between the big toe and the rest of the foot when the dancer is on demi-pointe. Forcing demi-pointes causes the joint surfaces to become irritated and bony spurs can develop on the bones. The condition can be aided through Cryotherapy (ice treatment), mobilisation and regular stretches to help in reducing pain and inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis, finally, is pain on the sole of the foot that is often worse in the mornings or after a strenuous exercise session. It is caused by an irritation and inflammation of the sole of the foot and it is often linked to dancing for long hours on hard floors. Rest, Cryotherapy, anti-inflammatories and manual therapy are all helpful in reducing the symptoms.