Epidemiology of Injury in the Young Dancer

Abstract

Dance is a common activity among children and adolescents, and often requires intense training and unique skills. The rate of injury among young dancers is substantial and has been reported at rates similar to adolescent athletes in other sports. Young dancers may be particularly vulnerable to injury due to the physiological growth process. While many theories exist, limited conclusions can be drawn regarding risk factors for dance injury based on current evidence. Pediatric dancers most commonly suffer from lower extremity injuries secondary to overuse, often involving joints or soft tissue structures and localizing to the foot and ankle. However, the rate and profile of injury may vary prior to and following puberty. Some of the most commonly reported injuries include ankle sprain, ankle impingement, foot and ankle tendinopathy, and patellofemoral pain. With regard to management and treatment, an individualized interdisciplinary approach involving parents, dance educators, therapists, and physicians is highly recommended.