Why a Podiatrist Might Be Important to a Dancer

With all the jumping, twirling, and fast switching of positions, dancing is a great workout for your body but it’s hard on your feet. That is why having a podiatrist is key to every dancer because the foot specialist will know how to efficiently evaluate and treat any foot injuries you have and explain how to avoid injury in the future.

Let’s talk about why a podiatrist is so important to a dancer – whether you dance for recreation or professionally – and where you can go to find excellent podiatrists right here in Central Maryland.

How Podiatrists Help Dancers

Proper form does not only mean knowing the right execution of steps, it also means knowing how to move in a way that protects your feet and ankles as much as possible. Your podiatrist will show you techniques and methods for protecting your feet from being injured during awkward or high-impact movements.

Probably the best thing about having a podiatrist is having someone to see for immediate care if you ever have a dancing injury or a concern about your feet and ankles. If you have foot pain, don’t try to tough it out – dancing through the pain and not having it treated by a doctor can result in chronic pain that is difficult to tamp down. Always contact your foot care provider for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Conditions in Dancers that Podiatrists Often Treat

Some of the most common foot and ankle conditions dancers tend to experience include the following:

Ankle Sprains

Due to intense choreography or sudden movements, you may roll, twist, or turn your ankle in the wrong way. This stretches or tears a ligament in the ankle, causing a sprain. A sprained ankle is the most common foot injury suffered by dancers.

Bunions

A bunion can form when your big toe is constantly pushed inward, toward the other toes, resulting in the base of the big toe bulging outward – which is a bunion. Bunions can develop when you have to wear constricting shoes, such as in ballet. Ballroom dancers who wear high heels are also at risk of this condition.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of connective tissue (plantar fascia) that stretches across the bottom of your foot, from your toes to your heel. This condition causes heel pain, which is felt especially in the morning and after long periods of standing.

Trusted Podiatrist in Central Maryland

Dancing places a lot of stress on your feet and ankles, so it is best to partner with a skilled podiatrist who can help you maintain your peak performance and prevent injuries while dancing. Here at the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland, our experienced podiatrists can help you maintain optimum strength and health of your muscles, bones, and joints in your feet and ankles.

We have many convenient locations across Central Maryland. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist, call our friendly staff today at (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE (463-2663), or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you keep dancing!