When to go on pointe has always been a concern. Some studios have a set age that determines the young dancers readiness for pointe. If dancers go on pointe too soon they are at risk for injury or get so discouraged that they fall behind in class. Each dancer matures physically at different times, which is why they should be evaluated individually. Parents are concerned about their daughter's health and the results of going on pointe too soon. A pre-pointe assessment will ease their minds and educate the dancer on their anatomical needs. Instructors benefit from these assessments as well. If they feel a student is not quite ready, a physical objective evaluation will support their subjective findings. This, in turn will help reduce injury and increase awareness of each dancer’s strengths and weaknesses.
This assessment can be recommended by the dance instructor or the parent, and can be given at different times during the season to give consideration to various growth spurts. It takes approximately twenty to thirty minutes and is accompanied by strengthening exercises for home. The range of motion is taken at the ankle to determine if the dancer can fully center herself on the tip of the pointe shoe. Having her weight back because she can not fully pointe her foot leads to overuse of the muscles in the rear of the lower leg. Range of motion is also taken at the hip to assess how much turn-out the dancer has. Limited turn-out in the hips causes the dancer to twist and try to turn-out from the knees down, causing malalignment of the knee and lower leg. Strength testing is performed for the ankle, hip, abdominals and back. It is extremely important to have a solid understanding of the need for trunk stabilization to reduce stress to the low back. The anatomy of the foot is noted and balancing skills are tested as well. Consultation with the instructor is important to understand the student’s determination.
It is important to build strength before going on pointe. The stronger the young dancer is the quicker her technique will advance. She will respond to cues and corrections and have better balance skills. Injury rates should be a concern, going on pointe too soon will increase the risk of injury. This evaluation is an anatomical physical to benefit the student and the instructor.
For more information about the workshops, or to schedule a workshop for your organization, please contact us directly by email at jacqui@dancemedicine.net.
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