Dancing can take a physical toll on your body. Joints and tendons in the knees that can see excessive wear and tear from repetitive movements are especially prone to injury. There are several knee problems to be aware of.
1. Patellofemoral Syndrome
This syndrome causes pain in the front of your knee and kneecap which is especially noticeable when it is painful to put weight on a bent knee in situations like walking down stairs or jumping. Usually caused by poor leg alignment due to unequal lateral pull from the quadriceps, common, external rotation of a dancer’s knee joint can wear down the cartilage in this area.
2. Patellar Tendonitis
Pronation and other improper foot alignments can strain and inflammation of your patellar tendon. This results in patellar tendonitis, which can start out only being painful only during times of activity but advance into continuous pain. Unless you take immediate action, the tendon can tear or degenerate.
3. Iliotibial Band Syndrome
If you have pain or tenderness toward the outside of your knee, especially after you dance, you may have iliotibial band syndrome. Dancers with uneven legs or weak lateral hip muscles are especially prone to this syndrome. Physical therapy can help strengthen the specific muscles necessary for healthy dancing and reduce pain while dancing.
Dancing can be a beautiful and enjoyable activity. Being aware of potential knee injuries can help you stay heathy. For more common knee injuries dancers should watch out for, contact Alabama Bone & Joint Clinic in Pelham at 205-621-3778.
