How to Talk to Your Doctor When You Have a Dance Injury

We’ve all been there.  A nagging pain or soreness that won’t go away or, worse, something traumatic happens and suddenly you are sidelined in the studio or marking through most of class.  The time has come to make an appointment to see your doctor (usually your pediatrician or PCP).  This is an important first step in healing.  During this first visit, communication is key both for understanding your injury and developing the best treatment plan to get you back to dancing. 

Below are 7 things to consider and plan to discuss when seeing your doctor for a dance injury:   

 What is your training schedule?  Your doctor needs to know how much you're dancing, rehearsing, cross training, exercising,etc.  Have you recently increased your class or rehearsal schedule?  Are you working on anything new?  Don't leave anything out.  All this is critical in determining workload and treatment planning. 

How and when does it hurt? If the injury is not traumatic be prepared to tell your doctor exactly how and when it hurts.  Specificity is key!  How long are you dancing before you develop symptoms?  How long after you’ve stopped dancing do symptoms go away?  What specific movements or positions are painful?  Be prepared to show your provider because they may or may not know dance terminology. 

 Have you ever had any previous injuries to your bones?  It is important for your doctor to know your injury history so they can ask more appropriate and informed follow-up questions.  

If relevant, what is your menstrual cycle like? What was your age of menarche and what is your cycle frequency as well as any changes that may have happened recently?  These are very important areas to be honest and open when talking with your doctor especially if there is a link to your current injury. 

Ask questions and respectfully challenge things that make you uncomfortable. For example, what to say if your doctor advises you to stop dancing and rest.  Ask them why they are making that recommendation and what/if any are the alternatives.  Ask your doctor what you can do to be active in your recovery.  Can you be working on something else? Can you still participate in a portion of class?  Make sure you and your doctor communicate clearly about what you can and cannot do.  

Should I see a dance PT?  Sorry, shameless plug but it’s true.  If your injury is appropriate for physical therapy you should totally see a PT that knows and understands dance. Here at Complete Game Physical Therapy, we work with dancers and apply our personal knowledge and dance experience.

 Remember the acronym BRAND when considering any treatment recommendation:

• -B.R.A.N.D.

  • Benefits- what are the benefits of the treatment?

  • Risks- what are the risks associated with the treatment?

  • Alternatives- are there other options available to me?

  • Nothing- what happens if I do nothing?

  • Decide- how long do I have to decide?

At Complete Game Physical Therapy we treat athletes of all ages and skill levels from weekend warriors to professional. Our mission is to provide the best care possible and get our patients back to the activities that they love!  If you are having any pain or limitations that are stopping you from performing your needed activities, take the time to schedule an appointment with one of our Doctors of Physical Therapy. During your first visit, we will be able to answer any questions.  Please contact us at 978-710-7204