The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast

Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PERFORMING ARTS

Perspectives and stories from my experience as a DPT who specializes in working with artistic athletes and active individuals and my experience navigating the competitive dance world with my daughter.

  1. 1H AGO

    Spotlight On: DanZING App & Its Remarkable 16 Year Old Creator

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Prisha Sasikumar In this episode: We explore how young innovator Prisha Sasikumar is transforming the dance community with her tech-savvy approach, launching the app danZING specifically designed for dancers and studios. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and the future of dance technology. About danZING by DanceVibes danZING is a new app built specifically for competitive dance studios to replace the chaos of group chats, emails, and scattered schedules—so dancers, parents, and teachers can stay fully organized in one place. Corrections (synced to timestamps), file storage, packing checklists, and more in one app! We’re currently preparing for our official June launch and opening early access to a limited number of studios. For Studio Directors & Teachers Streamline communication and team organization without the back-and-forth. → Join early access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing → UNTIL JUNE 20TH: Onboard your studio to receive one month free and 25% lifetime discount + direct input on features For Dancers Know exactly what’s happening—rehearsals, checklists, videos—all in one place so you can focus on performing, not scrambling. → Get early access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing For Dance Parents Stay in the loop without the stress—no more missed updates or last-minute confusion. → Sign up for access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing Learn more about DanceVibes and danZING: growithdancevibes.com Follow Prisha: instagram.com/prisha.sasikumar Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    45 min

  2. APR 17

    Growth Related Injury Series: Osgood Schlatter Disease

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: In this second episode of the growth related injury series, we discuss Osgood Schlatter Disease.  Discover causes, symptoms, what it is and how it can be treated. References: Corbi, Francisco et al., “Osgood-Schlatter Disease:  Appearance, Diagnosis and Treatment: A Narrative Review”.  Healthcare 2022, 10, 1011.  https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10061011 Antich, TJ MS, PT, Brewster, Clive E MS, PT.  “Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Review of Literature and Physical Therapy Management”.  The Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy.  Vol. 7, No1:5-10. Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    20 min

  3. APR 10

    Growth Related Injury Series: Severs Disease

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: In this first episode of a series on growth related injuries, Dr. Tara outlines what parents should know about Sever’s Disease. References: Hernandez-Lucas, Pablo, Leiros-Rodrigues, Raquel, Garcia-Lineira, Jesus, Diaz-Buil, Helena.  “Conservative Treatment of Sever’s Disease: A Systematic Review”.  Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024, 13, 1391.  Https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13051391 Nieto-Gil, Pilar et al., “Risk factors and associated factors for Calcaneal apophysitis (Sever’s disease): a systematic review”.  BMJ Open 2023, 13:e064903. Doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064903 Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    15 min

  4. MAR 13

    Sport Specialization, Burnout, Overtraining & Why Dancers Need A Physical Therapist

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: This episode discusses what the evidence states regarding youth sports guidelines including: Early sport specializationRecommended training hoursLong-term athlete developmentBurnoutOvertraining How parents and studios can support healthy growthI also explain how having a skilled physical therapist in your corner can help to mitigate some of the above concerns and enhance training, provide education and guidance for young dancers to prevent injury, burnout, and overtraining.  References: NSCA 10 Pillars of Successful Long-Term Athletic Development adapted from LLoyd et al, Journal of Strength Cond Res. 2016 Jayanthi, Neeru MD, et. al., “Developmental Training Model for the Sport Specialized Youth Athlete: A Dynamic Strategy for Individualizing Load-Response During Maturation”. Sports Health. Vol 14, No 1; 142-153. Brenner, MD et al.  “Overuse Injuries, Overtraining, and Burnout in Young Athletes”, Pediatrics Volume 153, No.2, February 2024:e2023065129  Resources:  Doctors for Dancers - https://doctorsfordancers.com International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS) - https://www.iadms.org Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    25 min

  5. MAR 6

    Creating Dance/Life Balance

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Angel Miller In this episode: This episode explores the complexities of balancing competitive dance, family life, and personal goals. Hosts Tara Christensen and Angel Miller share insights on managing training schedules, financial considerations, and supporting children's exploration of interests beyond dance. Main points:  Balancing dance training with family lifeResearching dance studios and schedulesFinancial considerations in competitive danceSupporting children's exploration of interestsThe importance of goal setting and communication Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    56 min

  6. FEB 27

    Competition & Convention Weekend Nutrition

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Angel Miller In this episode,  nutrition counselor Angel Miller discusses practical strategies for optimizing dance competition day nutrition.  Nutrition plays a vital role in an athlete's performance, especially for dancers who require stamina, strength, and agility. Starting the day with the right foods sets the tone for success. Dancers often face long hours, with early morning practices and late-night awards ceremonies, making it essential to keep their energy levels up.  Listen to hear our tips on how to optimize nutrition on competition and convention weekends. Chapters 00:00 Fueling Dancer Athletes: An Introduction 02:34 Nutrition Essentials for Competition Day 06:51 Snacking Strategies for Long Competition Days 10:20 Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Competition Nutrition 14:54 Understanding Dancer Nutrition as Athletic Fuel 16:34 The Importance of Consistent Energy 29:59 Practical Tips for Eating Out During Competitions 33:22 Hydration: The Key to Performance 35:05 Navigating Nutritional Choices for Dancers 39:02 Healthy Snack Options for Competitions 52:34 Building Healthy Eating Habits 01:00:01 Practical Tips for Busy Families Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    1h 1m

  7. FEB 6

    Teaching With Care: Consent and Trauma-Informed Practices In Dance

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Nicole Perry MFA, CLMA In this episode: I interview movement professional Nicole Perry, who shares her extensive background in dance education, intimacy coordination, and trauma-informed teaching. We discuss the importance of communication, power dynamics, and consent in dance education, as well as the need for professional development for teachers. Nicole emphasizes the significance of creating safe spaces for students and the role of self-advocacy in their learning journey. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding discomfort versus safety and the impact of trauma-informed practices in fostering a supportive learning environment. Takeaways Power dynamics in dance education can influence student behavior and learning.Clear communication of expectations is crucial in dance studios.Touch in dance education should be approached with consent and care.Trauma-informed teaching practices help create safe learning environments.Closure practices can help students transition between emotional states.Self-advocacy is essential for students in dance education.Understanding the difference between discomfort and safety is vital for dancers.Consent should be a foundational aspect of dance education.Professional development for dance teachers is necessary for effective teaching.Check Nicole out at: nicoleperry.org TikTok & Instagram: @intimacychoreofl Order Nicole’s book: https://a.co/d/49cUXuV Momentum Stage: https://www.momentumstage.org/ Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    1h 8m

  8. JAN 30

    Spotlight On: The Dance Bag & The Dance Bag Convention

    Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Jessica (Fernandez) Loscalzo Owner: The Dance Bag In this episode:   🌟 Ever wondered what it takes to create a thriving dance convention? 💃 Dive into the journey of Jessica Lascalzo, owner of the Dance Bag, as she shares how she turned a slow retail season into an unforgettable one-day dance event!  Jessica Lascalzo created the Dance Bag Convention to connect young dancers with top-notch instructors while also providing studio owners with direct access to dance product manufacturers. The Dance Bag Convention is more than just a dance event; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the love of dance. By focusing on education, quality instruction, and personal connections, Jessica Lascalzo has created a nurturing environment for young dancers to thrive. Whether you are a dancer, a studio owner, or a parent, the Dance Bag Convention offers valuable experiences that resonate long after the event.  Jessica also shares her experiences as a competitive dancer, professional dancer (she was a top 14 finalist on Season 2 of So You Think You Can Dance), dance teacher, and now dance store owner!  Her passion for dance carries through in her customer service and her passion for helping dancers and dance families find the right supplies and shoes for their needs.  We also chat about pointe shoe fitting and how she creates a personalized experience for every dancer.   You can find The Dance Bag on Instagram at: @thedancebagnj Check them out online: https://www.thedancebag.com/ You can register for The Dance Bag convention at: https://www.thedancebag.com/toes Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    46 min
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About

Perspectives and stories from my experience as a DPT who specializes in working with artistic athletes and active individuals and my experience navigating the competitive dance world with my daughter.

Information

  • Creator
    Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast

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