Podotherapy for (pre)professional dancers

Movement restrictions and dance technique

Small imperfections in position, posture or movement can affect dance technique and posture, and with that the development of injuries.

The podotherapist specialises in detecting and treating movement restrictions in the foot, ankle and leg. A movement restriction has consequences for the rest of the body: a changed movement pattern loads muscles, tendons and other joints differently, which can cause injuries. A small movement restriction in the foot, or a small difference in movement between the left and right ankle, has major consequences for the movements of the knee, hip and pelvis. Complaints will therefore not always be located where the movement restriction is.

Dance-specific examination

During the podotherapeutic examination, the feet, legs and trunk are assessed during dance-specific movements.

We also look at deviations in the position or posture of the feet, ankles and legs. Because of the intensive training, even a relatively small deviation (possibly in combination with the growth spurt) can cause complaints.

Treatment

With specific podomanual treatment, a movement restriction can often be resolved well and quickly. This treatment is supported with taping, exercises and, where appropriate, podotherapeutic insoles in everyday shoes and an adjustment to the dance shoes.

Adjustments to dance shoes and pointe shoes

For deviations in position or posture, treatment may consist of podotherapeutic insoles in everyday shoes, orthoses and an adjustment to the dance shoes.

Despite the limited space in ballet shoes or pointe shoes, we can still achieve a surprising amount.