Dance Medicine Physical Therapy

Dance medicine therapy is a specialized field focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating injuries in dancers and performing artists, aiming to optimize performance and longevity. It utilizes tailored rehabilitation, strength training, and biomechanical analysis, often provided by physical therapists with specialized expertise in dance.

While designed for ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dancers, this therapy also benefits performers in: 
  • Gymnastics
  • Figure skating
  • Cheerleading

Unlike general sports medicine, dance medicine specifically addresses the unique artistic needs of dancers, such as the demand for extreme ranges of motion and specific aesthetic alignments. 

Treatment may incorporate: flexibility, manual therapy, neuromuscular control, and functional strengthening, stabilization and plyometrics within dance specific exercises.

What is Physical Therapy for Dancers (Dance Medicine)?

Aquacare’s Dance Medicine Program offers a unique experience for athletes and performing artists providing individualized physical therapy tailored to all dance backgrounds. Certified dance medicine specialists provide one-on-one care to properly diagnose and return dancers safely to their activities. The dance medicine team at Aquacare Physical Therapy is dedicated to providing expertise in dance and performing arts, many of our dance specialists being former or current dancers themselves. Aquacare Dance Medicine is dedicated to the health and wellness of dancers and athletes of all levels.

a person standing on top of a pair of shoes

What Does Physical Therapy for Dancers (Dance Medicine) Treat?

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
  • Tendinitis
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
  • Foot and Ankle Pain
  • Hip Impingement
  • Labral Tears
  • SIJ Dysfunctions

How Does Physical Therapy for Dancers (Dance Medicine) Provide Treatment for Common Dance Injuries? 

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
  • Tendinitis
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
  • Foot and Ankle Pain
  • Hip Impingement
  • Labral Tears
  • SIJ Dysfunctions
Illustration of human feet with colorful nerve pathways and vascular structures, relevant to physical therapy for dancers and athletes at AquaCare Physical Therapy.

Did You Know?

We can come to your dance studio and present specific clinics for your dancers. We can also host clinics for your dancers at our offices.

Learn more and schedule: Email Katie Oakley at knuttall@aquacarerehab.com.

Meet Our Team - Certified Dance Medicine Therapists

a woman standing in a room full of desks

Katie Oakley, PTA, Co-Clinical Director

Headshot of a young adult female

Katie Weber, DPT, CMTPT, COMT, Co-Clinical Director

Headshot of Shannon Arnie

Shannon Arnie, PT, DPT

Headshot of Melanie Blankensop

Melanie Blankensop, PTA

Hannah Barger wearing graduation gown and blue dress

Hannah Barger, PT, DPT