Image credit: www.artsontour.com

Whenever you participate in a physical activity, there is a risk of being injured and dance is no exception to the rule. Dancers must build their strength and flexibility slowly and safely in order to safeguard against these injuries. And one of the best ways to do that is to take the time to properly warm up the major muscles of the body. But in spite of our best intentions, dance injuries still happen.

For example, a cramp is a painful muscle contraction usually felt in the back of the leg and in the front of the thigh. Muscle cramps are caused by fatigue or muscle tightness, or an imbalance of fluid, salt or potassium from heavy sweating. To prevent muscle cramps, make sure to stretch before and after dancing. A muscle strain causes tenderness of the muscle and possibly swelling. Muscle strains are caused by sudden contraction of a muscle and poor flexibility. Dancers are particularly prone to muscle strains in the lower back.

Shin splints are another injury dancers face where there is pain in the front portions of the lower legs. They are caused by many reasons including jumping on hard surfaces, landing improperly, and having poor flexibility. All dancers should be cautious and make sure they land properly to avoid shin splints from forming when jumping.

A condition that causes chronic pain and inflammation to the foot is called plantar fasciitis. It also pain to the heel and in the arch of the foot. It is very common in ballet dancers who wear pointe shoes as they tend to induce that condition.

Stress fractures cause pain and swelling, and usually occur in the shins or balls of the feet. They are usually caused by repeated jumping and landing. Female ballet dancers seem to be at high risk for developing stress fractures in the lower legs and feet.

Tony and Melanie have been dancing, teaching, creating and developing amazing choreography for over 30 years. The run New York City’s top-notch dance center. If you are want to know more history of any dances make sure you check out their site. They are now teaching dance lessons in NYC.