Strains and Sprains Top Dance Injuries in Young People 3 to 19 years

Scientists led by Roberts and colleagues (2012) from the Center for Injury Research and Policy in Columbus Ohio examined 16 years of data on dance-related injuries in young people ages 3 to 19 years. More than 113,000 young people were treated in emergency rooms in the U.S. for dance related injuries between 1991 and 2007. 

Classical style dance (ballet, tap, etc.) accounted for just over half of the injuries and nearly 6 out of 10 of the injuries occurred in the lower half of the body.

The most common types of dance related injuries were <i>strains and sprains</i>.

Approximately 45% of the injuries were caused by some type of fall.  Researchers concluded that dance related injuries have identifiable patterns, and that injuries vary by the type of dance and the age of the individual. Learn more about common dance injuries in young people.

If you are suffering from a dance-related injury, it is advisable that you contact an orthopedic physician for a full evaluation and treatment.

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