The Prevalence of Injury among Tap Dancers

Abstract

A literature search revealed no information on the prevalence of tap dance injuries, one of several dance styles involving percussive footwork. We conducted a retrospective survey to determine the rates and patterns of injury among a cohort of experienced tap dancers enrolled in “advanced” or “master” classes at the New York City Tap Festival. Demographic factors, dance/performance, exercise, and injury histories were recorded and analyzed and the injury rate per 1000 dance exposures calculated. Calculated injury rates among the tap dancers were substantially lower than those previously reported for other dance and athlete populations. We conclude that kinetic and kinematic analysis is required to explain the apparent decreased risk of injury among tap dancers. Comparison data may lead to improved strategies for injury prevention in these other areas.