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Common Foot Injuries in Dancers

 

Dancers spend hours every week training. Dancing places a high physical demand on the body, especially the feet.

A dancer’s foot and ankle are crucial in performing most ballet techniques, including en pointe, demi-pointe, and pliѐ. 

There are many injuries that can occur at the foot and ankle complex. However, the most common foot injuries in dancers are lateral ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, metatarsal stress fractures, and tibialis posterior strain/tears.

Below are the most common foot injuries in dancers and their symptoms

Posterior Impingement Syndrome

  • Pain in the back of the ankle, especially when going on pointe or performing a relevé.
  • Most common in dancers who do pointe or demi-pointe.
  • Pain and stiffness in the posterior heel area due to compression in the posterior aspect of the ankle.
  • Compression occurs when the foot is in full plantarflexion (pointing down)
  • Pain may be achy or sore and is aggravated by long periods of sitting and increased activity.

 

 

Anterior Impingement Syndrome

  • Pain in the front of the ankle especially when performing pliés and sometimes unable to perform full plié because of the pain.
  • Compression occurs when the foot is in full dorsiflexion (pointing up).
  • Pain may be achy or sore or pinchy in nature.

 

Achilles Tendinitis 

  • The calf feels tight and painful, especially during jump routines.
  • Can present with some swelling, stiffness, and weakness at the back of the ankle.
  • Stiffness and pain can be felt when getting out of bed the next morning after dance class.

 

Plantar Fasciitis

  • Heel pain on the first steps when getting out of bed in the morning.
  • Pain feels better once warmed up and moving but can increase after dance class.
  • Pain when getting up after sitting for long periods of time.
  • Tenderness can also be present in the arch of the foot.

 

Lateral Ankle Sprain

  • The lateral ligaments of the foot can be overstretched or torn.
  • Swelling, tenderness, and bruising on the outside of the ankle.
  • Difficulty weight bearing or the feeling of an unstable/ weak ankle.

Stress Fracture

  • Can occur if there is a sudden increase in dance frequency, intensity or duration of training.
  • Frequently occurs in the long bones of the foot, usually the second and third metatarsal bone.
  • Pain while walking, and swelling may be present.
  • Pain does not get better once warmed up but feels worse.
  • Aching and pain may be present at night.

Tips to Reduce the Risk of Injuries in Dancers

  • Proper training is essential to develop the skills needed for dancing, without putting the dancers at risk of injury
  • Adequate rest to allow the body to heal.
  • Strengthening of the lower limb muscles and core muscles.
  • Gradually increase the dancing intensity, frequency, and duration instead of doing too much too soon to avoid overload.
  • Get appropriate and well-fitted footwear to support the dancer’s feet.
  • Avoid dancing on uneven surfaces which can cause injury.
  • Book in a pre-pointe assessment prior to going on pointe at Well Heeled Podiatry.
  • Seek professional advice if there is any pain or discomfort in the foot and ankle

At Well Heleeled Podiatry we are experienced in treating common foot injuries in dancers. We also offer pre-pointe assessments to help you minimize the risks of foot injuries.

 

We use a variety of treatment options which include;

About The Author - Monique Milne

Monique Milne is the experienced Director of Well Heeled Podiatry, offering comprehensive podiatry care with a focus on sports podiatry. Her expertise spans a wide range of services, including biomechanical and gait assessments, 3D scanning and orthotics, nail surgery, children's lower limb development, and treatment for various foot and leg conditions.


With advanced qualifications in shockwave therapy, foot mobilisation and manipulation techniques (FMT), tool-assisted massage (TAS), prolotherapy, and dry needling, Monique provides cutting-edge treatments for musculoskeletal conditions of the feet and lower limbs. Well Heeled Podiatry also offers specialized services such as pre-pointe assessments, Keryflex treatments, and Moon Boot fittings.


Monique's professional background includes working in a High Risk Multidisciplinary Foot and Leg Clinic at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in South Australia, collaborating with various medical specialists. Her experience extends to public speaking, presenting educational material, and supervising podiatry and medical students. Recognized by the Australian Podiatry Association and Sports Medicine Australia, Monique is dedicated to excellence in podiatry care and continuously seeks passionate, like-minded podiatrists to join her team at Well Heeled Podiatry.