So You're Hypermobile. Here's How Pilates Might Help

My hypermobility used to cause me a lot of trouble, but I’ve gained confidence and strength after reading about it in one of your columns. I now have a Pilates instructor who’s retraining my body and helping me dance in a consistent way. Thank you! —No Longer Anxious, Philadelphia, PA As you’ve discovered, addressing hypermobility […]

The Truth About Back Cracking

There are few things more satisfying than a good back crack. But rumors say it can have negative effects on your body—and your dancing. In truth, research has shown that spinal manipulation done by a practitioner can provide short-term pain relief and better recruitment of your deep spinal muscles. Jessica Davis, a physical therapist in […]

Why Can't I Heal? 8 Reasons Your Injury Might Be Taking Longer To Recover

You’ve rested and rehabilitated. But what if an injury still bothers you? Health-care professionals share eight reasons dancers might heal more slowly than expected. You Got the Wrong Diagnosis Make sure you’re targeting the right injury. Photo via Unsplash If a chronic injury won’t heal, make sure you are treating the right one. According to […]

Does Being Hypermobile Change How You Heal?

I had to stop physical therapy for a chronic subluxing knee after suffering a second-degree leg burn from spilling hot cooking oil. I’ve been to the doctor, used antibiotic cream, and washed and bandaged the burned area daily based on his directions. But it’s taking forever to heal! I don’t understand why my body won’t […]