Pre-pointe Assessment

Transitioning onto pointe is a huge milestone for dancers but it may take many years to develop the required strength in all joints of the body to ensure this transition is appropriate and safe.

As a general rule, dancers should be at least 12 years of age prior to attempting pointe. Given this period of adolescence is associated with rapid growth and high training loads, dancers are at a greater risk of injury making a thorough Physio assessment all the more important.

Each dancer needs to have an individual assessment prior to commencing pointe as it reduces the risk of chronic injuries (e.g. foot and ankle) developing due to the lack of necessary strength, therefore allowing for a prolonged successful dance career.

It is recommended to have an assessment 3-6 months before starting pointe class to allow adequate time to correct any biomechanical or technical deficits with appropriate strengthening.

At Back In Motion Eltham, the key areas that will be assessed during your pre-pointe assessment include:

• A review of medical, dance and injury history;
• Lumbopelvic control and core stability;
• Hip mobility/turnout;
• Hip strength and single leg control;
• Foot and ankle mobility;
• Ankle and intrinsic foot strength; and
• Functional ballet technique assessment.

Following this initial assessment, specifically tailored strength and mobility exercises will be prescribed to address any deficits to prepare dancers for the demands of pointe work.

Not every dancer will be ready for pointe after their first assessment, many will need to continue perfecting their technique in class and work on their exercises at home prior to their next appointment.

The pre-pointe assessment will be conducted by Stefanie Girdler, who is has undergone additional training to be qualified in pre-pointe assessing, as well as having 17 years of dancing experience.

To learn more or to book an initial assessment with Stefanie, please contact us on 9439 6776 or book online below (please ensure you select “Pre-pointe assessment” as the appointment type).