Dance

The purpose of the study is to examine the prevalence, incidence, and severity of musculoskeletal injury and to identify potential risk factors in recreational, pre-professional and professional dancers across different styles of dance.

Youth and adults enrolled in dance training across any level and style.

In order to master their craft, dancers participate in rigorous training that incorporates both physical and artistic requirements. Research suggests that this training increases a dancer’s susceptibility to musculoskeletal injuries and renders dance a high-risk activity. In fact, up to 90% of student dancers will sustain an injury during a 9-month training period. The key to developing strategies to prevent these injuries, to promote long dance careers and long-term health benefits, involves identifying what puts dancers at risk.

Dancers complete a series of standardized pre-participation screening assessments at the beginning of the academic year/training season. Then, throughout the year/season, all dance-related musculoskeletal injuries are tracked by a medical professional and/or the dancers themselves.