Explore every episode of the podcast The Dance Physio Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Episode 45: Continuing Education Options for Dance Teachers | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:32:44 | |
One of the questions I commonly get asked from dance teachers and other physiotherapists is what options there are for continuing education when it comes to learning more about dance medicine and science.
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| Episode 44: Strength and Conditioning for Irish Dance with Ellen Waller | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:42:59 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Ellen Waller from Target Training Dance. Ellen and I first met at an IADMS conference in 2019 and immediately hit it off. We have a similar interest and fascination with how the body works, and have applied this curiosity to careers in dance science. In this episode we discuss Ellen's journey in Irish Dance, how Target Training came to be and how strength and conditioning benefits Irish Dancers. We also dive into flexibility training, and how the Flexibility Foundations program has helped Ellen re-vamp her flexibility training program to get even better results for her Irish Dancers. As a young dancer, Ellen recognized the unique physical and mental challenges encountered by elite dancers and athletes. Determined to learn more about supporting young dancers and athletes, she returned to school to complete her Masters of Science in Exercise Science. Coupling her in-depth experience as an Irish dancer/instructor with her expansive knowledge of kinesiology, Ellen developed the innovative Target Training program; a series of courses and training methods that condition the specific muscles Irish dancers need to:
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| Episode 35: Sprains, Strains and -itis's in Dance | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:20:48 | |
Ever wondered what the difference between a sprain and a strain is? And which one is a more severe injury? In this episode I discuss the difference between sprains, strains and all the -itis injuries in dance. Knowing how dance injuries are classified can help dancers understand the nature of their injury, as well as facilitate communication with teachers and healthcare teams.
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| Episode 34: Syllabus Training in Dance with Astrid Sherman | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:46:05 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by one of my long time teachers and mentors, Astrid Sherman. We discuss the pros and cons to implementing a syllabus system for dance training, as well as some of the commonalities and differences with different syllabus around the world.
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| Episode 33: Optimizing Rest in the Post Season | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:29:55 | |
When we think of rest, we typically just think of physical rest. But that's just one of 7 different types of rest - as described by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. In this episode, I outline the 7 different types of rest we should consider, and how we can incorporate them not just into post season, but throughout the dance season as well.
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| Episode 32: Accommodating Modifications in Dance | 28 May 2024 | 00:23:08 | |
I continue to hear stories of dancers being penalized for being injured by being pulled from dances or not being allowed to perform. In this episode, I dive into why I think dance is one of the greatest activities to modify in terms of rehabilitation, and how we as a dance culture can accommodate these modifications to ensure our dancers stay safe while continuing to be able to participate in the activity they love.
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| Episode 31: Off Season Training Plans for Dancers | 21 May 2024 | 00:29:00 | |
With the end of the dance year fast approaching, it's time to consider what the off season is going to look like for you or your dancers. In this episode, I cover what an ideal post season and off season should and could look like. I dive into what the goals of the off season really are and how you can use the off season to set yourself up for success for the coming dance year.
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| Episode 30: Regulation in the Dance Industry | 14 May 2024 | 00:26:13 | |
In most parts of the world, the dance industry is unregulated. In this episode, I dive into what that actually means, the difference between regulation and certification/qualification, and why I think regulation is the next necessary step to protect dancers.
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| Episode 29: Patellar Dislocations in Dancers | 07 May 2024 | 00:36:12 | |
Patellar (kneecap) dislocations and subluxations are a common knee injury in dancers. In this episode, I discuss how and why these injuries happen, as well as some prevention strategies. You'll also learn what treatment and management of these injuries looks like for a dancer.
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| Episode 28: Growth Plate Injuries in Dancers | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:36:17 | |
Adolescent dancers are not just small adults, and there are certain injuries that need to be taken into consideration for this specific population. Growth plate injuries are common in athletic adolescent populations, and dancers are no different. In this episode I explain the anatomy of what a growth plate actually is, and discuss some of the common growth plate injuries that we see in dancers.
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| Episode 27: The Use of Ankle Weights in Dance | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:26:45 | |
Ankle weights have become popular in the dance world as a potential way of strengthening dancer's legs. In this episode I discuss the use of ankle weights in dance. You'll learn the pros and cons of adding ankle weights to your dance training, when they are NOT advised to be used and when they potentially might be a helpful addition to training.
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| Episode 26: Tips for Tapering in Dance | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:30:35 | |
"No other sport runs the marathon before running the marathon" - Catherine Vargo. Tapering is the idea that you decrease your training load prior to participating in the 'main event'. In the case of dance, this is often a performance or a competition. In the dance world, the norm is often the opposite - we pile on extra rehearsals and practices in the name of 'perfecting' the dance. In this episode I dive into the specifics around tapering, and what the dance world can gain by following this basic sport science principle.
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| Episode 43: Nerve Glides for Dancers | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:33:05 | |
Nerve gliding, also known as nerve flossing, is a common treatment technique used in physiotherapy. Recently, it has become more main stream and used not just for injury recovery, but also general performance enhancement and optimal health.
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| Episode 25: Stress Fractures in Dancers | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:41:42 | |
In this episode I discuss stress fractures in dancers. You'll learn what a stress fracture actually is, and why dancers are so susceptible to stress fractures. I'll discuss some of the risk factors for stress fractures, as well as the diagnosis, treatment and management of them.
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| Episode 24: Posterior Ankle Impingement | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:23:28 | |
In this episode I discuss posterior ankle impingement (PAI). While a common injury in dancers, it's not as common in the general population and is often misdiagnosed by practitioners not familiar with dance. In this episode you'll learn why this injury is common in dancers, how it commonly presents, and treatment options for posterior ankle impingment.
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| Episode 23: Five Cues to Ditch in Dance | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:37:13 | |
In this episode I discuss 5 common cues that are used in dance and need to be ditched immediately. From "lift your leg from underneath" to "shoulder blades down and back", you'll learn why these cues are problematic and need to be replaced.
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| Episode 22: Sitting Out in Dance Class | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:30:16 | |
Sitting out and observing dance class is the norm when a dancer is sick or injured. In this episode, I discuss why this might not always be the best approach, and ways we can support injured dancers that keeps them meaningfully attached to their studio and peers to help enhance their recovery.
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| Episode 21: Considerations for Summer Intensives | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:27:23 | |
~ Flexibility Foundations open for registration until March 15th. Check out all the details and register here
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| Episode 20: Ankle Sprains in Dancers | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:31:25 | |
In this episode, I discuss all things ankle sprains. You'll learn the difference between a sprain and a strain, why ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries we see in dancers, and why a 'simple' ankle sprain is never that simple. I'll also discuss common signs and symptoms of ankle sprains, as well as goals and timelines for rehabilitation.
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| Episode 19: Pros and Cons of Dance Competitions | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:24:14 | |
Although we know that dance competitions offer many positive things for dancers, they are not without their downsides as well. In this episode, I discuss some of the top physiotherapy issues I see in competition dancers, that seem to be far less common in vocational, recreational and concert style dancers. I also offer some tips and suggestions on how to mitigate some of these risks.
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| Episode 18: Mindset Tips with The Confident Dancer | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:46:51 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Kirsten Kemp from The Confident Dancer. We discuss her journey in the dance world, and how it's shaped the work she does today. She provides practical tips for dealing with nervousness and performance anxiety, as well as mindset tips when dealing with setbacks like injury. This is a conversation you don't want to miss!
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| Episode 17: RAMP Up Your Dance Warm Up | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:26:28 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss all things dance warm up. Most people in the dance industry understand the importance of a proper warm, but often struggle to know exactly what to include in a comprehensive warm up. I'll introduce the RAMP protocol and how it can be easily implemented to structure your dance warm up.
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| Episode 16: Dancer First Aid | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:30:21 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss what to do if you or one of your dancers gets injured. Unfortunately injuries are an inevitable part of dance, but knowing what to do when one happens can make all the difference for injury recovery. I'll break down the PEACE & LOVE formula - the current gold standard for injury first aid.
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| Episode 42: Incorporating Science into Dance with Maria Haralambis | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:47:13 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Maria Haralambis - aka The Dance Scientist. We discuss Maria's journey in the dance world, and how she discovered the field of dance science. You discuss the benefits to both dancers and teachers when teachers incorporate dance science into the studio, and how teachers can learn how to do this.
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| Episode 15: Adolescent Growth Spurt in Dancers | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:33:05 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss the adolescent growth spurt and how it affects young dancers. You'll learn the physical changes that happen in the body during this time, as well as how these changes relate to injury risk in dancers. Finally, I'll discuss the implications for dance, and what we as dance teachers, parents and healthcare providers can do to help dancers going through this transition.
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| Episode 14: Flexibility for Dancers. Part 4 - Active Mobility | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:26:50 | |
Part 4 of a mini series on flexibility for dancers. In this episode, I'll discuss active mobility and how it relates to dancer mobility. You'll learn what active mobility is, examples of the difference between passive and active mobility, and ways to incorporate it into your dance classes. Be the first to know all the details of a new flexibility program for teachers, which will harness the power of the nervous system to improve your dancers mobility in a safe and effective way. Add your name to the waitlist now. Absolutely no obligation, you'll just be the first to hear all the details when they're available.
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| Episode 13: Flexibility for Dancers. Part 3 - The Nervous System's Role in Mobility | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:24:46 | |
Part 3 of a mini series on flexibility for dancers. In this episode, I'll discuss the nervous system's role in mobility. You'll learn some basic anatomy around the structure and function of the nervous system, and how that impacts mobility within the body. I'll also discuss some basic principles of using the nervous system to improve mobility and make faster and safer gains in flexibility. Be the first to know all the details about a new flexibility program for teachers, which will harness the power of the nervous system to improve your dancers mobility in a safe and effective way. Add your name to the waitlist now. Absolutely no obligation, you'll just be the first to hear all the details.
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| Episode 12: Flexibility for Dancers. Part 2 - The Truth About Overstretching | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:30:48 | |
Part 2 of a mini series on flexibility for dancers. In this episode, I'll answer the question about whether overstretching really is bad for dancers. You'll learn the difference between muscular and connective tissue, and why changes to connective tissue can be problematic in the long run. I'll also discuss how overstretching might affect a hypermobile dancer, and why we need to proceed with extreme caution in this population. Finally, I'll touch on ways we can improve mobility safely for dancers, without the added risk of overstretching.
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| Episode 11: Flexibility for Dancers. Part 1 - Flexibility vs Mobility | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:16:58 | |
Part 1 of a mini series on flexibility for dancers. In this episode, I'll discuss the difference between flexibility and mobility, and why understanding the difference is important to see improvements in mobility for dancers.
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| Episode 10: Training Load Management for Dancers | 26 Dec 2023 | 00:30:24 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss training load management for dancers. I'll dive into why poor load management is a risk factor for injury, and ways to mitigate this risk. You'll learn the factors that affect training load, as well as various ways to measure and monitor training load.
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| Episode 9: Rest and Recovery for Dancers | 19 Dec 2023 | 00:30:30 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss rest and recovery for dancers and why lack of recovery is one of the single biggest challenges that dancers face. I'll dive into the current culture of more more more, and why this is problematic - especially for adolescent dancers. You'll learn the difference between active and passive recovery and why both are important, as well as how sleep relates to recovery and injury prevention.
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| Episode 8: The Truth About Turnout | 12 Dec 2023 | 00:34:49 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss all things related to turnout. You'll learn the main contributors to turnout, and why some dancers have more natural turnout than others. I'll also discuss the most effective strategy for improving turnout, and why for some dancers improving turnout probably isn't their best goal.
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| Episode 7: Dance Conditioning - Cross-Training vs Supplementary Training | 05 Dec 2023 | 00:26:45 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss all things dance conditioning. You'll learn the difference between cross-training and supplementary training, and the benefits of each. I'll also discuss my recommendations for incorporating conditioning in dance schedules, and how much cross-training dancers should really be doing. Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 6: Periodization in Dance | 28 Nov 2023 | 00:28:32 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss periodization and how it can be implemented into dance specific settings. You'll learn the most common phases of periodization - pre season, in season, post season and off season - and what dancers should be prioritizing during each specific phase. Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 41: Self Care for Dance Teachers | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:35:19 | |
Just like many people in helping professions, dance teachers put everything into their students and studios, often at the expense of their own health and wellness. In this podcast episode I discuss 5 things for dance teachers to prioritize when it comes to taking care of their own bodies, so they can continue to teach for years to come.
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| Episode 5: Injury Rates in Dance - How Bad Is It? | 21 Nov 2023 | 00:29:04 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss the current landscape with regards to injury rates in dance. You'll learn common terminology used when discussing injury rates, and how dance injury rates compare with other sports populations. Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 4: Pre-pointe Assessments | 14 Nov 2023 | 00:26:27 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss the who, what, where, when and why of pre-pointe assessments. You'll learn the science behind pre-pointe testing, as well as the 3 most important physical tasks to determine pointe readiness. The Pre-Pointe Assessment Toolkit
Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 3: Dance Specific Screening Assessments | 06 Nov 2023 | 00:29:52 | |
In this episode, I'll discuss the specifics around dance specific screening assessments. You'll learn the components of dance screen, what makes it different from a general functional movement screen, how often dancers should have a screening assessment done and resources for conducting dancer screens. Healthy Dancer Canada Healthcare Practitioner and Dance Educator screening tools: https://www.healthydancercanada.org/
Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 2: Why Dancers Need Dance Specific Care | 06 Nov 2023 | 00:22:23 | |
In this episode, you'll hear why I think EVERY dancer should have access to dance specific care. I discuss what makes dancers' healthcare needs unique, and what sets them apart from other athletes and patient populations.
Learn more about Erika Mayall:
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| Episode 1: My Journey as a Dance Physiotherapist | 25 Oct 2023 | 00:33:20 | |
In this episode, I discuss my journey into becoming a dance physiotherapist. From falling in love with dance as a young child, my own experiences of attending physiotherapy as a teenager and realizing that teaching dance wasn’t for me.
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| Episode 40: Leadership in Dance with Tamara Thompson Levi | 23 Jul 2024 | 00:35:16 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Tamara Thompson Levi - the founder, director and CEO of Shine Dance Festival and The Dance Leadership Institute. We discuss Tamara's journey in the dance world: from growing up in Edmonton, AB her professional career that brought her out to Vancouver, BC and her vision to create the competition she felt was missing in the dance world at the time. Tamara is a passionate educator, presenter and event director who's success is grounded in vision, leadership and a values centred business approach.
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| Episode 39: Managing Injuries at a Summer Intensive | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:23:19 | |
No one wants to get injured while away at a summer intensive, but the reality is injuries are an unfortunate part of dance. Some dancers will come into an intensive already dealing with an injury, while others may suffer an injury while away at the intensive. In this podcast episode I'll go over things to consider and ways to manage injuries while at a summer intensive.
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| Episode 38: Dance Education as Skills for Life with Lindsay Daniels | 09 Jul 2024 | 00:49:15 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Lindsay Daniels from The Movement Project. We discuss her journey in the dance world, the injury that led her to a career in teaching, and how she ended up in a public high school setting. Lindsay is a strong advocate for the benefits of dance education as skills for life, and provides opportunities for dancers in both her high school program and community based dance program in the Durham, Ontario region.
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| Episode 37: Managing Knee Hyperextension in Dancers | 02 Jul 2024 | 00:38:51 | |
Hyperextension at the knee is an aesthetic that is often valued and sought after in the dance world. Those that don't have it want it, but those who have it know it be can a challenge to manage and isn't always a blessing.
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| Episode 36: When is an Injury Actually an Injury in Dance? | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:29:18 | |
Dance is one of the most physically demanding activities and dancers are continually pushing their body's to the limit. Some aches/pains/niggles are to be expected when pushing our physical boundaries, but how do you determine when something is just a niggle and when it's actually an injury? In today's episode I discuss things to consider to help you determine when you can just carry on as usual, and when it might be time to admit that an injury is an injury, and likely needs medical attention.
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| Episode 46: Six Lessons Dance Can Learn From the Olympics | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:32:11 | |
If you've been following me for any length of time you know how obsessed I am with the Olympics. In this episode, I highlight 6 lessons that I think the dance world can learn from the Paris Olympics and the athletes who participated in these games. Have a listen to hear what my biggest takeaways were and how I think they can be applied to the dance industry.
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| Episode 47: Return to Dance Pre-Season Training Considerations | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:24:40 | |
With the start of the new dance season in most parts of North America, this episode focuses on considerations that teachers and students should be aware of as they return to the studio. With the absence of a true 'pre-season' in most of the dance world, the start of a new season acts as pre-season and should be treated thus so. In this episode, I discuss what the purpose and goals of a pre-season on, and how teachers and studios can make sure their dancers are safely transitioning back into the dance season.
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| Episode 48: Early Sport Specialization in Dance - Part 1 | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:25:12 | |
Early Sport Specialization (ESS) has increased in youth sports in recent years, but it's not without its drawbacks. In this episode, you'll learn what exactly early sport specialize is, some of the reasons why it's gained popularity in the past ~20 years, and what the top 3 concerns with it are. Stay tuned for Part 2 of the episode where we will explore the implications for ESS specifically in dancers, and how we can mitigate some of the potential concerns.
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| Episode 50: Tendonitis in Dancers | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:41:17 | |
Tendonitis in one of the most commonly diagnosed injuries in athletes, and dancers are no exception. In this podcast episode, we dive into all the details about tendon injuries. You'll learn about the role tendons play in movement, why the term tendonitis isn't always correct, common tendon issues we see in dancers, and options for treatment.
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| Episode 49: Early Sport Specialization in Dance - Part 2 | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:24:53 | |
Early Sport Specialization (ESS) has increased in youth sports in recent years. In Part 1 of this series, we discussed exactly what early sport specialize is, some of the reasons why it's gained popularity in the past ~20 years, and what the top 3 concerns with it are.
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