Dance PT Podcast

Dance PT Podcast
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The Dance PT Podcast caters to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants dedicated to treating dancers, offering insights and strategies to overcome common challenges such as burnout, discouragement, stress, self-doubt, and other psychosocial barriers. Designed to empower listeners in pursuing and enjoying their dream career, each episode provides valuable resources and support to navigate the complexities of working with dancers while fostering personal and professional fulfillment in the field of dance physical therapy.

  1. When the Stage Spins- Vestibular Challenges and BPPV in Performers

    3D AGO

    When the Stage Spins- Vestibular Challenges and BPPV in Performers

    In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, Dance PT Certified, dives into a critical, yet often under-recognized issue for dancers, singers, actors, and musicians: vertigo and balance disruption, with a focus on Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Performers rely on precise control over their bodies to execute choreography, hit notes, or move confidently on stage. But what happens when a sudden spinning sensation—or vertigo—throws them off center? BPPV is a disorder of the inner ear caused by dislodged crystals that send false signals about movement, leading to dizziness, imbalance, and even nausea. While it’s frightening, it’s also highly treatable with vestibular rehabilitation guided by a skilled physical therapist. In this episode, Jenna walks PTs and PTAs through: Common triggers of BPPV in performers, including choreography, stage lighting, and head movements How to recognize the subtle signs of vestibular dysfunction before it impacts performance or causes injury Evidence-informed assessment tools, including the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, and indications for imaging Step-by-step rehabilitation strategies, including canalith repositioning maneuvers, gaze stabilization, balance retraining, and performance-specific integration Guidance on preventing recurrence and educating performers on self-monitoring Whether you’re working with dancers, musicians, or actors, this episode equips you with practical, clinical tools to help performers return safely and confidently to the stage. Join the conversation in the Dance PT Facebook Group and explore further learning opportunities with the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com

    9 min
  2. When Balance Betrays a Dancer

    MAY 5

    When Balance Betrays a Dancer

    When a dancer loses their balance mid-turn or stumbles during a lift, it’s more than an embarrassing wobble—it’s a red flag signaling underlying neuromuscular, vestibular, or proprioceptive challenges. In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, Dance PT Certified, dives deep into the complex world of balance in dancers, exploring why traditional cues like “tighten your core” aren’t always enough, and how physical therapists and PTAs can assess, identify, and address the subtle deficits that sabotage performance and increase injury risk. You’ll hear about: Common balance red flags in dancers, from overcorrecting during turns to dizziness with spotting How glute and core strength, proprioception, vestibular input, visual tracking, and even medications influence balance Evidence-based assessment strategies for static and dynamic balance, postural alignment, reaction time, and vestibular function Building a dancer-specific balance plan that integrates single-leg stability, turnout and pelvis control, head movement desensitization, foot intrinsic strengthening, vestibular retraining, and breath-core coordination How dance-focused PT interventions restore trust in the body, improve technique, prevent injury, and extend a dancer’s career Backed by current research and clinical experience, this episode provides PTs and PTAs with actionable insights and assessment tools to elevate their dance rehabilitation practice. Whether you’re working with elite performers, students, or hobbyists, this episode will help you understand the “why” behind balance issues and give you strategies to restore confidence and control in your dancers’ movements. Join Jenna to learn how to connect the science of balance with the artistry of dance, and discover how your expertise can keep dancers safe, resilient, and performing at their best. Connect with the community: Join the Dance PT Facebook Group to share cases, insights, and strategies with other dance-focused PTs and PTAs. For more in-depth learning, including CEU opportunities designed for dance rehabilitation and practice growth, check out the Dance PT Program at danceptprogram.com .

    10 min
  3. Ankylosing Spondylitis in Dancers- What PTs Need to Know

    APR 28

    Ankylosing Spondylitis in Dancers- What PTs Need to Know

    On this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, and Dance PT Certified, dives into a condition that can quietly but profoundly impact dancers: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). AS is a chronic inflammatory disease that targets the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and potentially vertebral fusion. For dancers, even subtle spinal restrictions can disrupt alignment, breathing, movement quality, and artistic expression. As clinicians, recognizing early signs and implementing evidence-based, dance-specific interventions is crucial to helping performers maintain their craft while managing a chronic condition. In this episode, Jenna walks you through: How AS presents in dancers—including red flags like morning stiffness, restricted spinal mobility, and fatigue disproportionate to rehearsal demands Clinical assessment strategies—what to look for in movement patterns, posture, and functional dance tasks Evidence-based treatment strategies—from joint mobility and core stabilization to rib cage expansion and functional dance retraining Programming for performance—how to safely progress from basic mobility to choreography simulation while minimizing flare-ups Prevention and long-term maintenance—ways to preserve movement, strength, and artistry Referral and imaging guidance—when to involve rheumatology or order advanced imaging With practical, research-informed insights and dance-specific adaptations, this episode is designed to help PTs and PTAs support dancers in maintaining performance, function, and longevity. For more connection and education, join the Dance PT Facebook Group to share strategies with other dance-focused clinicians, and explore the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com to deepen your expertise in treating performing artists.

    12 min
  4. When Arms Betray- Biceps Tendon Rupture in Dancers

    APR 28

    When Arms Betray- Biceps Tendon Rupture in Dancers

    In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, and Dance PT Certified, dives into one of the most dramatic and disruptive injuries for dancers, singers, and performers: biceps tendon rupture. Whether it happens mid-lift, during a port de bras, or while managing props and costumes, this injury can instantly rob performers of control, strength, and confidence. Designed specifically for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants—both students and professionals—this episode breaks down: The anatomy and mechanics behind biceps tendon ruptures in the performing arts Common causes, risk factors, and high-risk styles of dance How to spot early signs, including pain patterns, muscle deformities, and functional deficits Evidence-based physical therapy strategies for rehabilitation and performance-specific retraining When imaging and surgical consultation are warranted Prevention strategies to protect shoulders and arms for long-term career longevity With a conversational, story-driven approach, Jenna shares clinical insights, movement assessment tips, and rehabilitation ideas that you can apply in your practice today. By the end, you’ll understand how to guide dancers safely back to performance, whether they require surgical repair or conservative rehab. Join the conversation and connect with other dance PTs/PTAs in the Dance PT Facebook Group, and explore the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com to deepen your expertise in treating performers and marketing your practice to this niche.

    9 min
  5. ACL Injuries in Dancers – From Injury to Curtain Call

    APR 21

    ACL Injuries in Dancers – From Injury to Curtain Call

    ACL injuries are among the most daunting challenges a dancer can face—but with dance-specific rehabilitation, thoughtful progression, and evidence-informed care, returning stronger than before is possible. In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, I’m breaking down everything PTs and PTAs need to know to treat dancers with ACL injuries effectively. We’ll start with a story you’ll recognize: that sudden pop, the knee giving out mid-rehearsal, and the questions that follow—“Can they dance again? How do I keep them safe?” I’ll guide you through: The anatomy and biomechanics of the ACL, and why it’s uniquely stressed in dancers’ pivoting, jumping, and turn sequences Mechanisms of injury in dance, including non-contact ACL tears and common risk factors Red flags and assessment cues that help you determine severity and guide referrals Evidence-based rehabilitation strategies, including prehabilitation, post-operative protocols, dance-specific strength, balance, and plyometric progressions Prevention strategies proven to reduce re-injury risk, like dynamic warm-ups, landing mechanics training, and core-hip integration Practical clinical pearls: what to observe during movement, how to integrate choreography into rehab, and how to collaborate with the multidisciplinary team Throughout the episode, I reference the latest research and clinical guidelines to provide PTs and PTAs with actionable, evidence-based insights for managing ACL injuries in dancers. Whether your client is a ballet student, contemporary performer, or musical theatre triple threat, this episode equips you with the tools to guide them safely from injury back to the stage. Join the conversation, connect with other dance-focused clinicians in the Dance Physical Therapists Facebook Group, and explore the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com to deepen your knowledge and expand your dance rehabilitation practice.

    11 min
  6. That Snap, That Fall, That Pause… Understanding Ankle Sprains in Dancers

    APR 14

    That Snap, That Fall, That Pause… Understanding Ankle Sprains in Dancers

    In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, I, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, Dance PT Certified, break down ankle sprains in dancers from a clinical perspective. Using a story-driven approach, we explore why dancers are uniquely at risk, how lateral ankle sprains present in the performing arts, and what evidence-based rehabilitation looks like for performers. You’ll learn: Risk factors specific to dancers, including previous injuries, fatigue, and jump-heavy choreography (Kaminski et al., 2013) Functional assessment and staging for ankle sprain rehab (Hertel, 2002) Dancer-specific strengthening, balance, and proprioception strategies to prevent reinjury When imaging or referral is indicated for persistent pain or suspected fracture Practical tips to integrate rehab with choreography and performance demands This episode is designed for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students working with dancers, performers, and performing arts athletes. Whether you’re evaluating your first dance patient or refining return-to-stage programming, this episode provides actionable, research-informed strategies to help your dancers recover safely and efficiently. Join our Dance Physical Therapists Facebook Group to connect with other clinicians in the niche and explore the Dance PT Program CEU Course at danceptprogram.com for deeper training on treating performers.

    9 min
  7. Why Does My Ankle Pinch When I Relevé? – Understanding Ankle Impingement in Performers

    APR 7

    Why Does My Ankle Pinch When I Relevé? – Understanding Ankle Impingement in Performers

    In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, I’m breaking down ankle impingement, a common but often overlooked condition that can quietly sideline dancers, gymnasts, and performers of all kinds. Whether it’s a sharp pinch at the front of the ankle during a plié, or a deep ache in the back during relevé or jumps, ankle impingement can compromise performance and increase the risk of chronic injury. As physical therapists and PTAs, we are in a unique position to screen, assess, and rehabilitate these injuries before they become career-limiting. In this episode, I guide you through: The anatomy and biomechanics of the ankle relevant to dancers and performers Anterior vs. posterior ankle impingement: how each presents and affects movement Mechanisms of injury—why repetitive strain, fatigue, or structural anomalies matter Red flags for persistent ankle pain and when to consider imaging Evidence-based rehab strategies including pain management, mobility restoration, strengthening, and functional return-to-performance programming Prevention strategies that actually work in the performing arts world Clinical pearls for PTs/PTAs treating high-level performers We’ll also discuss how to safely progress from rehab to full choreography, ensuring performers return to the stage stronger, safer, and more confident. If you treat dancers or performing artists, this episode is packed with clinical insights, practical treatment tips, and evidence-based guidance you can apply immediately in your practice. 🎧 Listen in and empower your performers to keep moving safely, with artistry intact.

    10 min
  8. The Ankle Fracture in Performers- From Injury to Stage-Ready Recovery

    MAR 31

    The Ankle Fracture in Performers- From Injury to Stage-Ready Recovery

    In this episode of the Dance PT Podcast, I, Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, Dance PT Certified, break down one of the most disruptive injuries for dancers and performing artists: the ankle fracture. Whether it’s a traumatic misstep during rehearsal or a stress-related overuse injury, ankle fractures can sideline performers and impact their artistry, confidence, and career trajectory. I’ll walk you through: The unique anatomy and biomechanics of the dancer’s ankle Common mechanisms of injury—both acute and overuse Red flags to identify fractures versus sprains Evidence-based imaging guidelines and when to refer Clinical assessment strategies and hands-on treatment approaches Stage-specific rehabilitation and return-to-dance programming Prevention strategies dancers actually need to stay safe and performance-ready You’ll gain actionable clinical insights, practical PT and PTA treatment ideas, and research-backed strategies to guide performers safely from injury to the stage. This episode is perfect for physical therapists, PTAs, students, and professionals interested in the performing arts niche. Resources & Links: Dance PT Program (danceptprogram.com) – specialized dance rehabilitation Join the Dance Physical Therapists Facebook group for peer discussion and resources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dancepts

    8 min
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About

The Dance PT Podcast caters to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants dedicated to treating dancers, offering insights and strategies to overcome common challenges such as burnout, discouragement, stress, self-doubt, and other psychosocial barriers. Designed to empower listeners in pursuing and enjoying their dream career, each episode provides valuable resources and support to navigate the complexities of working with dancers while fostering personal and professional fulfillment in the field of dance physical therapy.

Information

  • Creator
    Dance PT Podcast
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    282
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Dance PT Podcast