Case report - (2014)13, 874 - 880
Three-Dimensional Analysis of a Ballet Dancer with Ischial Tuberosity Apophysitis. A Case Study
Hanna Pohjola1,2,, Mark Sayers3, Rebecca Mellifont3, Daniel Mellifont3, Mika Venojärvi1
1University of Eastern Finland, Finland
2Theatre Academy, Finland
3University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia

Hanna Pohjola
✉ University of Eastern Finland, Institute of Dentistry, Kuopio campus, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
Email: hanna.pohjola@uef.fi
Received: 25-06-2014 -- Accepted: 25-08-2014
Published (online): 01-12-2014

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this case study was to describe the three-dimensional biomechanics of common ballet exercises in a ballet dancer with ischial tuberosity apophysitis. This was achieved by comparing kinematics between the symptomatic (i.e. ischial apophyseal symptoms) and contralateral lower limbs, as well as via reported pain. Results suggest consistent differences in movement patterns in this dancer. These differences included: 1) decreased external rotation of contralateral hip, hence a decreased hip contribution to ‘turn out’; 2) increased contralateral knee adduction and internal rotation; 3) an apparent synchronicity in the contralateral lower limb of the decreased hip external rotation and increased knee adduction; and 4) minimal use of ankle plantar/dorsiflexion movement for symptomatic side. Pain related to the left ischial apophysitis was associated with reduced amplitudes especially in fast ballet movements that required large range of motion in flexion and adduction in the left hip joint. These findings suggest that ischial apophysitis may limit dancer’s ballet technique and performance.

Key words: Sports injuries, dance, case study, biomechanics

Key Points
  • The pain related to the left ischial apophysitis was associated with reduced amplitudes especially in fast ballet movements that require large range of motion. This may affect to the lower limbs kinematics, and limit dancer’s technique and performance.
  • Compensatory strategies in the kinetic chain, differences in the joint angles between the lower limbs, traction forces, velocity and amplitude demands should be taken in consideration while training and rehabilitation of the ischial apophyseal injury within classical ballet.








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