Lower extremity musculoskeletal problems in dancers.

Ankle and foot problems are extremely common in the high-performance dance population. To adequately evaluate and treat these problems, the physician must possess knowledge of how the physical demands of dance affect the performer's body. A routine evaluation of the dancer, involving a team of orthopedists, dance instructors, and physical therapists familiar with dance mechanics, has been developed to facilitate recognition of the abnormal mechanics responsible for injury. This technique can be useful in prevention and early diagnosis of injury, thus minimizing lost performance time.