Ankle Injuries commonly seen in dancers

I have seen and experienced a number of ankle injuries while I’m dancing or rehearsing. And most of my dancer friends will agree. So, from my personal experience, these are ankle injuries which is commonly seen in dancers.

Bunion

A bunion is nothing but a small growth on the side of the big toe and it can be hurting. It is a very common issue seen in dancers. 

Causes

The major cause of Bunion is wearing small or very tight shoes which can form a a pressure on the foot while dancing. If the bunion is left untreated, it can result in a permanent deformity and may affect the remaining toes.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of forming a bunion are swelling, a bulge arising on the base of the big toe. It can cause pain and soreness when applied pressure while standing or stress. 

Treatment

The non-surgical treatment for bunions includes wearing wide and soft padded footwear. 

Ankle Sprain

I’m sure every dancer has experienced some kind of ankle sprain. It is the most frequently seen condition seen in lower limbs resulting in pain and swelling at the ankle region.

Causes

The major cause of having an ankle sprain is rolling or wrong landing on foot while jumping and losing balance while walking or dancing. Another major cause of having an ankle sprain is an uneven surface or dance floor. Some dance floors have a good shock absorber base for a smooth landing and to prevent injury.

Treatment

The best remedy for the Ankle sprain is RICE, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

In Cryotherapy, that is cool therapy RICE plays a significant role and is an effective treatment for ankle sprains. 

Rest: Go easy on performing physical and vigorous activities.

ICE: Apply an ice pack or ice cubes wrapped in a towel or napkin on the affected site.

Compression: Wrap the affected part by using a crepe bandage which reduces swelling.

Elevation: Place your foot above the heart level by using pillows. This reduces the accumulation of fluid in the joint. 

Other Ankle Injuries

There are other injuries such as fractures, Tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis. But they must be treated by the expert doctor. 

Tips to Avoid Ankle Injuries

1. Always start your dance routine with a warmup and slight stretch in order to relax the stiff muscles. 
2. Strengthening exercises for the calf and lower limbs are crucial to avoid injuries.
3. Wear soft and wide footwear, make sure that the sole is soft, or attach an insole to your shoes. Avoid wearing high heels.
4. Do not neglect your ankle pain. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort.
5. Make sure your dance floor is flat and the surface is plain.