Pre-Pointe Assessments
Starting en pointe is an exciting time for a young dancer and it’s important to ensure that readiness for pointe work is assessed professionally. We have specially trained Podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry who have the necessary skills to be part of this exciting step in your young dancer’s life.
Our role as Podiatrists is to look at the dancer as a whole and take into consideration the many factors that can impact their safety when dancing en pointe, including strength, flexibility and technical ability. We also work to identify any potential podiatric issues which could arise from pointe work, such as ingrown toenails, corns and bunions.
During the consultation, one of our pre-pointe-trained podiatrists will assess the dancer’s medical history, conduct a full physical examination and identify potential factors that could impact their safety. From here, we provide targeted stretches, exercises, offloading and other interventions as required. Our Podiatrists can also work closely with ballet teacher(s) and parent/carers to determine the readiness for pointe work, and provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up care as necessary.
Foot and Ankle Strength
Assessing the strength of the muscles in the feet and ankles is crucial, as pointe work places significant demands on these areas.
Range of Motion
A full range of motion in the ankle and foot is important for proper technique and injury prevention.
Alignment
The overall alignment of the lower extremities, including the knees and hips, is evaluated to ensure that the dancer can maintain proper form while on pointe.
Balance and Stability
Dancers should demonstrate good balance and stability, both on flat and en pointe.
Flexability
Adequate flexibility in the feet, especially in the toes and arches, is necessary for safe and effective pointe work.
Injury History
Podiatrists will review any past injuries or conditions that could affect the dancer's readiness for pointe.
Foot Type
Analyzing the dancer's foot type (flat, neutral, or high arch) can help in recommending appropriate footwear and support.
Overall Conditioning
The dancer’s overall physical condition, including strength and endurance, is considered to ensure they can handle the demands of pointe work. This assessment helps to minimize the risk of injury and supports the dancer's progression into pointe classes.
