Abstract

Of the 1,662 dance-related injuries reported, the lower extremities are the commonest sites of injury in theatrical dancers. The shin splint syndrome is the commonest complaint and the fact that the foreleg pain, which is called the shin splint syndrome, may be secondary to a number of pathologic processes is pointed out. The use of nonresilient surfaces for dance activity as a probable cause for the high incidence of the shin splint syndrome, as well as the externally rotated position of the hips and the use of thinsoled shoes areemphasized as a cause of the shin splint syndrome. The knee, ankle, and foot appear to be the most common sites of injury involvement in this group. The knee produces the greatest amount of disability. Muscle tears of the thighs and legs, secondary to improper warmup prior to strenuous activity, are also reported. Meniscal tears (verified) are seen more commonly in females than in males, and possible reasons for this are presented. The low back and hip areasare common sites of problems. Problems in the low back of male dancers may be related to male-female lifts performed in the classical ballet and modern dance. Upper extremity problems are most common in the shoulder. Dislocation of this joint is the most serious of these problems. Case presentations and causes and discussions of injuries reported in theatrical dancers are also presented. In view of the increased interest in the various theatrical dance forms in this country, it seems rather important that we, as orthopaedic surgeons, be aware of this group of individuals as definite therapeutic and diagnostic problems. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)