Dancing is a wonderful way to stay fit while also expressing yourself. Those who dance professionally are often very conscious of their health and take the proper steps to preserve it. However, with any rigorous activity comes a risk of injury. For dancers, many injuries can cause back pain while also affecting function. Here are some of the facts about dance injuries that you must know. 

Which Back Injuries Most Often Impact Dancers?

1. Stress Fractures 

Also known as spondylolysis, dancers can develop stress fractures in the lumbar spine due to extreme bending or failing to use their muscles for proper support when performing certain maneuvers. As an overexertion injury, it usually develops over time and is often caused by improper form (which is why it’s common among younger dancers).

The injury causes back pain that radiates along the spine and into the muscles making up the glutes. While stress fractures typically heal on their own, you must avoid activities that involve your lower back for at least two or three months. 

2. Slipped Disc

A slipped or herniated disc occurs when the soft cushioning between the vertebrae pushes through the outer covering. With a slipped disc, back pain is usually worse after sitting or standing. Pain may also radiate into the arms and legs and is often accompanied by a feeling of numbness.

Slipped discs often affect older dancers more often due to many years of performing repetitive movements. However, some people are genetically predisposed to disc herniation. While serious cases may require surgery, conservative treatments include physical therapy to strengthen back muscles and reduce discomfort. 

3. Facet Derangement

Small facet joints are responsible for connecting bones in the vertebrae, and in the lower back, these joints experience massive stress. When dancers rotate their spines while bending forward or backward, they’re at risk of experiencing derangement of facet joints.

When facet joints are injured, you may feel pain in the lower back alone. However, if nerves near the facet are pinched, the pain will extend down one or both legs. Short-term rest of about one week is usually sufficient when facet derangement occurs. 

Dancers in Lancaster, CA, can find relief from pain and improve function after experiencing the above injuries. AVORS Medical Group offers a variety of treatments for many injuries and conditions. Their chiropractic and massage therapies relieve pain and ease pinched nerves. They also provide orthopedic treatment if you’re dealing with fractures or injuries. They even offer pain management and rehab to get you back on your feet. Learn more about their services online or schedule an appointment by calling (661) 726-5005 today.