Abstract

Ballett is both an art form and a highly developed athletic pursuit. Few sports can boast so many veterans at such a young age. Seventy-five girls from 10 to 18 years of age were surveyed for frequency of injury. Added to the long hours of training are the additional stresses of other organized physical activities. The knee was the most frequently injuried body part at 20.1 percent, followed by ankle 15.4 percent, foot 13.1 percent, and the low back 10.7 percent. The anterior knee pain snydrome was the most prevelent condition with the medial tibial stress syndrome being next most freqent. Significant problems with the knee or fott early in a dancers career probably herald an inability of the dancers physique and anatomy to stand up to the rigors of a professional career. The unbalanced flexibility, abnormal postures, and lack of protection afforded by the ballett slipper contribute to this injury pattern. While significant prophylaxis could be achieved by a knowledgeable therapist associated with a ballett company, it is unfortunate that most injuries are neglected and simpe preventive measures are rarely put into effect. Verf.-Referat