Dynamic loading on flamenco dancers: A biomechanical study

Abstract

The Flamenco dancer acts on the floor like a drummer. The percussive footwork during dancing generates a series of shock waves which impose unusual demands on the musculoskeletal system. This study investigated biomechanical aspects of this task and ways to reduce the amplitude of the shock waves by the in-shoe viscoelastic insoles. Using skin-mounted accelerometers, hip and knee vibrations were recorded in three female dancers. The recorded acceleration data reveal the percussive nature of the dance. Urogenital disorders, as well as back and neck pain, may be related to the shock waves generated by the Flamenco dance form. Use of the insoles seems to reduce the amplitude of dynamic loading recorded on the tibial tuberosity of the dancer by 9–29% depending on the dance and performer. Evaluation of the shock waves invading the human musculoskeletal system during Flamenco dancing is suggested as a useful tool for evaluating dancers' biomechanical behavior, as well as the effect of the floors and footwear on the dynamic loading of dancers' musculoskeletal system.