Dance medicine

Dancers are highly athletic, flexble and supple, they may be at risk of injury of the physical demands of their art.

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HCA UK Booking Line:

0207 079 4344

About dance injuries

Dancers may suffer from a variety of musculoskeletal problems. These can include back pain (due to wear of the discs or facet joints) hip pain (due to femoral acetabular impingement or arthritis), bone pain due to stress fractures, ankle injuries and problems with the joints of the feet.

Dancers may also be prone to hormone problems, such as RED-S (relative energy deficiency in sport, formerly known as the ‘female athlete triad’). RED-S can cause a spectrum of physical problems, including the risk of bone stress injuries such as stress fractures.

Need to know

  • Screening and Diagnosis icon plus

    You will be thoroughly assessed and examined by your consultant. You movement patterns will be observed to look for any restrictions or strength deficiencies, and you may be sent for diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound scan.

    If a medical problem such as RED-S is suspected, you may need to undergo blood tests and an assessment of your bone mineral density (DEXA scanning).

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Your treatment options will be discussed with you by your consultant. Depending on your injury type, a course of physiotherapy or osteopathy may be recommended.

    Sometimes injection treatment (such as a guided corticosteroid injection) or shockwave therapy may be recommended. Occasionally, temporary rest from dance by be required, and your consultant will work closely with your therapist, coach or dance company, to guide your recovery.

Our dance medicine consultants

We have a number of sports and exercise medicine consultants who specialise in dance injuries, and can diagnose and treat a number of conditions as well as help you recover from an injury, enhance your performance or reach your training goals. Our dance consultants can also help with injuries to gymnasts and rhythmic gymnast athletes. 


Our team of consultants often work closely with club or team doctors and physiotherapists and can refer you to specialist sports physiotherapists as needed. 

Our locations

From complex musculosketal problems to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional care for dancers across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics. 

Request an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
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