THE INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF DANCE AND MUSCULOSKELETAL PHYSIOLOGY

Abstract

Dance is a unique form of self-expression that has a multitude of physiological implications pertaining to both health and injury. The purpose of this project is to emphasize the relationship between dance and musculoskeletal physiology. The project includes a self-choreographed contemporary dance performance and a written analysis of the physiological components responsible for the execution of a variety of technical dance elements. Misuse of certain muscles can also increase a dancer’s susceptibility for injury. Thus, the text includes descriptions of how these injuries may occur and the mechanisms by which they can be avoided. Lastly, dance has a variety of positive impacts on the body, which are discussed in the final section of the paper.