People come to our Raleigh dance studio for different reasons. Our students learn dances for weddings, social events, improved health, dancesport competitions, or more importantly to just have fun.
No matter your experience, level of skill or preferred style of dance: all dancers from beginners to experts are prone to accidents and injuries.
From ballroom dancing to various Latin dances, dancing uses muscles in ways differently than that of regular exercise.
Common Dance Injuries
- Knee Injury
- Hip Injury
- Ankle Injury
- Foot Injury
- Fractures
Reduce your risk of dance related injuries by being mindful of these 5 risk factors:
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- Sprains
The most affected area of a sprain are the ankles and knees. Sprains could lead to an increased risk of arthritis of the joints.
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- Tendonitis
Usually occurs in the hips, knees, elbow, shoulders, and wrists. Tendonitis is inflammation of tissue connecting muscles to bones.
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- Strains
Occurs when muscle fibers split and leaves a gap that can develop scar tissue. Strains in the neck are common in ballroom dancing because of not maintaining proper head tilt during dancing.
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- Muscle Cramps and Spasms
Painful muscle cramps are a result of tight muscles and fatigue. For ballroom dancers, cramps are a more common occurrence in the back and legs.
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- Fractures
Stress fractures are common in feet. X-rays and scans are recommended to properly diagnose if the injury is a fracture.
Treatment for Dance Related Injuries
The R.I.C.E. Method
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- R (Rest)
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As soon as you feel hurt, stop dancing. Avoid putting weight on the affected area for 25-48 hours.
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- I (Ice)
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Ice helps with the pain and swelling. Apply an ice pack every 15-20 minutes as needed for the first 2 days.
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- C (Compression)
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Wrapping the injury helps prevent swelling. Wrap the area with an elastic medical bandage. Be sure not to wrap too tight. Loosen the bandage if its feels numb, tingly, cold or turns blue.
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- E (Elevate)
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Raise the injured body part above your heart. Elevation helps reduce swelling, pain and throbbing.
Anti-Inflammatory Medicine
Using a non-steroidal anti-inflammation medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with the pain and swelling associated with dance related injuries.
Prevention of Dance Related Injuries
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- Be well rested
- Wear appropriate clothes and shoes for dancing
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Stretch properly before dancing
Ready to Start Dancing Again?
At Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Raleigh, we teach a range of dances including Salsa, Swing, Ballroom, and many more! Whether you are a beginner or an advanced dancer, our instructors can help you improve your dancing skills. Contact us today at 919-872-0111 or fill out the contact form below.