Rehabilitation of foot and ankle injuries in ballet dancers

Abstract

Classical ballet is an exacting art form with roots dating to the Italian Renaissance. The physical demands of dance class, rehearsal, and performance can predispose the dancer to injury. The foot and ankle are common sites of injury. Most injuries are caused by overuse rather than acute injuries. The purpose of this clinical report is to describe the initial treatment, as well as a structured program directed to the restoration of motion, strength, endurance, and proprioception essential for the successful return to dance. Additionally, specific rehabilitation techniques will be presented to assist the physical therapist in reducing those risk factors that may predispose a dancer to future injury.