Injury in Irish dancing: The state of the art

The burden of injury in Irish dancing (ID) is substantial and comparable to that in other genres of elite dance. Additionally, pain is experienced by the vast majority of Irish dancers, many of whom continue to dance while injured or in pain. Risk factors for pain and injury are multifactorial and complex and moderated by a balance between individual resilience and vulnerability in the dancer. A variety of modifiable and non-modifiable intrinsic and extrinsic factors must be considered to facilitate optimal health, wellbeing and performance in the dancer. Injuries occur predominantly in the lower limb, with the foot and ankle region most commonly affected. Other anatomical sites at risk of injury include the knee, calf, shin and hip/groin area. Overuse injuries including tendinopathy, stress fracture and muscle complaints are frequently experienced, in addition to traumatic injuries such as sprains and fractures. Qualitative investigations of Irish dancers' experiences of injury are characterized by anxiety, uncertainty and fear. Younger dancers report a tendency to conceal injury from teachers, while more experienced dancers are quicker to discuss such issues with their teachers. Support from family, peers and teachers is of critical importance when an injury is experienced. Dancers favor healthcare professionals with previous dance or athletic experience, or those who demonstrate an enthusiasm and willingness to learn about the demands of ID.