Physical Therapy Blog

Turning in dance is a technical skill that looks effortless when executed well. However, behind that seamless spin is a full-body movement requiring coordination, strength, balance, and precision. Whether you are working on pirouettes, fouetté turns, or chaînés, mastering turns is essential for all styles of dance, from ballet to contemporary to jazz.

Performance anxiety is an all-too-familiar experience for many artistic athletes, from dancers and gymnasts to competitive cheerleaders. These athletes not only strive to master their craft but also present it to an audience, often under the pressure of exacting standards. While some degree of nervousness is typical, performance anxiety can become debilitating, hindering an athlete's ability to perform at their best. This article explores why performance anxiety is so common among artistic athletes, what symptoms may signal a need for intervention, resources available to them, and practical tips for performing with confidence.

For young dancers, puberty can be both an exciting and challenging time. As they navigate through physical changes, many dancers find that their bodies no longer respond in the same way they once did. Flexibility may decrease, muscles may feel tighter, and balance can become harder to maintain. These changes, which are a natural part of development, can impact a dancer’s performance and self-esteem. However, with the right knowledge and habits, dancers can endure these shifts and even use them to their advantage. In this article, we'll explore the changes dancers can expect during puberty, how they might affect performance, healthy habits to navigate this period, and how physical therapy can be a valuable resource.

Stephen King is often hailed as one of the most successful horror fiction writers of all time. His works have become cultural phenomena, with TV shows and movie adaptations alike giving King immense success. While King has earned worldwide fame and money for his writing, he has often said that is not why he writes.

Dance is a dynamic art form that demands strength, flexibility, and control. Among the many elements that define a dancer's skill, extension stands out as a critical component, especially in styles like ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance. Improving extension can elevate a dancer's performance, allowing them to create visually stunning lines and shapes with their bodies. In this article, we will delve into what extension is, why it is important for dancers, the consequences of inadequate extension, and how physical therapy can support dancers in achieving optimal extension.

Leaps and jumps are the heart of many dance routines, showcasing a dancer's athleticism, grace, and precision. These movements require a combination of strength, flexibility, coordination, and power, making them some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of dance. However, without proper preparation and conditioning, these movements can lead to injury and hinder a dancer's performance. In this article, we'll explore the best exercises for dancers to improve their leaps and jumps, the muscle groups involved in these movements, the risks of inadequate preparation, and how physical therapy can play a crucial role in enhancing these skills.

Many workout programs include both cardio and strength training, with rest days in between. However, strength training is often overlooked in the dance community, with many dancers fearing it might lead to unwanted muscle bulk. However, strength training is crucial for dancers' overall health and performance, and no dancer should shy away from including it in their routine. We always encourage our dancers at EW Motion Therapy to incorporate strength training into their routine, and we help them do it through personalized programs that complement their training schedule. While you may decide that our dance program doesn’t fit your needs, this article will help you understand the importance of strength training for dancers. We address concerns about bulking and advise how dancers can effectively incorporate weight training into their schedules. Additionally, we will discuss how physical therapy and personal training can significantly optimize dancers' strength training routines.

Artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders, and gymnasts often face unique pressures and challenges. Young girls who participate in these sports are often under pressure from various sources, and these disciplines require both physical prowess and aesthetic appeal. Pressure from all sides can sometimes lead to unhealthy behaviors around nutrition. Understanding the effects of malnutrition on these athletes is crucial for their health, performance, and overall well-being. Artistic athletes need a robust support system from family and professionals that can help them stay healthy. At EW Motion Therapy, we consider it a privilege to be part of any athlete’s support system, helping prepare their bodies for the demands of their sport. Even if you decide our services don’t fit your needs, you can still read on to learn more about malnutrition and how artistic athletes can prioritize a balanced diet.

Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," plays a pivotal role in the body's ability to manage stress and maintain overall health. While its name might imply negativity, cortisol is essential for various bodily functions. Regular physical activity is a great way to maintain healthy cortisol levels - we love helping our clients reduce pain and improve mobility so they can maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Even if you decide that our services don’t fit your needs, you can still read this article as we explore what cortisol is, its primary purpose, factors that influence its levels, the consequences of elevated cortisol, and strategies to maintain healthy cortisol levels.

Choosing the right dance studio can be a pivotal decision, whether it's for you or your child. A dance studio is more than just a place to learn steps and routines; it’s a nurturing environment where passion for dance can flourish, discipline and creativity are cultivated, and lifelong friendships are formed. Dance can also be a fun, engaging exercise done recreationally. Whether you dream of a professional career or want to compete, physical therapy is essential to any dancer’s routine, improving performance and preventing injury. Our dance team at EW Motion Therapy can create a custom treatment plan for any dancer to work toward their goals and keep dancing for a lifetime. Whether you decide that our services fit your needs or not, you can still read on for some essential tips and resources to help you make an informed decision, including a list of studios in the greater Birmingham area to research.