Most dancers throughout their studies and career face the prospect of recovering from an injury. Here is some advice on how to return to your dance activities after experiencing such an injury.
Discuss your return with doctor, parents, teachers
With serious injuries, make sure the doctor you are working with approves of your return to dance activities.
With this approval, discuss with your parents and then your dance teachers the best way to get you back into the swing of dancing without risking further aggravation of the injury you are recovering from.
Develop a plan for each dance class on first starting classes and how quickly you can return to full participation.
Continue any necessary treatment to your injury
If the doctor indicated specific on-going treatment for your injury, make sure you take all necessary medication, therapy, or other activity to ensure a quick recovery. Make sure you warm up properly prior to dance class and properly “cool down” after dance class as well.
Let your teachers know what, if any, limitations the doctor or your parents have put on your class participation. It may be hard for you not to “go all out” but remember recovering from the injury is of utmost importance for you to fully enjoy a long dance career.
Making your return to dance class
Be patient with your recovery. Rushing back too soon can lead to re-injury and even more down time, which you don’t want to happen.
You may only be able to handle part of a class or certain elements of the class. Work with your teacher to make sure you are not putting your body at risk for re-injury. Gradually build back to pre-injury dance activity.
Be aware of what your body is telling you
Dancing safely is all about listening to your body and training properly. Make sure you are honest with yourself and how your body is reacting to this return to your normal dance routine.
If you start feeling pain or aches, don’t hesitate to take a rest so you can avoid doing too much. Keep your dance teachers posted on what, if any, discomfort you are experiencing.
All these steps will help you in your return to your normal dance activities and give yourself a long and successful dance career.
