Dancing is one of man’s oldest activities. Either as a celebration or entertainment, dance has been around for many years. Some historical records show dance as an active part of a human culture dating as far back as 3300 B.C. in India and Egypt. Just where and when it began is unknown, but it would not be unusual to imagine ancient man celebrating a successful hunt with a ‘dance’ around the communal campfire millions of years ago.

One type of modern dance that is still popular today is ballet. Ballet dancing includes, music, costumes and stage scenery and is usually done on the dancer’s toes. Because of this, ballet dancing can take a heavy toll on a dancer’s feet.

Some of the foot problems ballet dancers experience include:

• Blisters – a sore on your foot filled liquid. Some can be popped while others should be left to heal on their own
• Bunions – a deformity at the base of the big toe
• Hammertoes – where the toe is buckled up at a joint
• Callus – the development of a thick and hard layer of skin often over the ball of the foot, heel or outer edge of the big toe
• Corn – smaller thickening layer of skin with a soft core
• Black nails – bruising or bleeding under the nail
• Ingrown toenails – where the sides of the nail grow into the nail groove

Basic Footcare for Ballet:

• Alternate shoes – changing the shoes you perform in will allow them to dry and help prevent the growth of foot disease causing fungus
• Moisturize your feet
• Wear padding to help support your toes
• Proper fitting ballet shoes – see a ballet store to determine if your ballet shoes fit properly
• Stretch your feet when not dancing
• See your podiatrist – regular visits to your podiatrist will help maintain foot health especially with all the stress and potential for foot problems that can come with ballet

Like any sport or activity, ballet requires dedication and hard work. Keeping in shape is very important to be your best when it comes to ballet. This applies especially to your feet.

If you or your children are considering ballet or have any foot concerns, please make an appointment with us. Dr. Brandon A. Macy, who is associated with New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute, will assess your feet and find the appropriate treatments to get you back to being active. Call Clark Podiatry at (732) 382-3470.