EPIDEMIOLOGY OF DANCE INJURIES IN COLLEGE DANCERS

Abstract

Dance injuries in college students pose challenges to their academics, their passion pursuits, and can eventually be detrimental to their professional careers. This study investigates the epidemiology of injuries within the University of Arizona School of Dance, focusing on injury patterns, mechanisms, and treatment suggestions. This is accomplished through a retrospective analysis of 129 notes taken in the UA School of Dance Clinic with Dr. Daniel Latt from October 2018 to November 2023. It is revealed that ankle injuries, particularly those of the peroneal tendons and the lateral ankle ligaments (the anterior talofibular ligament and the calcaneofibular ligament), are most prevalent in this population of college dancers. Mechanisms of injury predominantly involved a specific injury event over a gradual onset of symptoms, and these injury events most occurred during dance classes. The most frequently suggested treatment was athletic training and physical therapy, additionally implying a preventative approach using these recommendations. We proposed peroneal tendon and lateral ankle ligament strengthening and stabilization, which consists of resisted eversion, inversion, dorsiflexion, and plantar flexion to meet the needs of comprehensive injury prevention for college dancers. Future research should explore injury persistence in relation to performance demands, as well as injury occurrence in specific dance styles and differing college programs.