Clinical anatomy and biomechanics of the ankle in dance.
The ankle is an important joint to understand in the context of dance because it is the connection between the leg and the foot that establishes lower extremity stability. Its function coordinates with the leg and foot and, thus, it is crucial to the dancer's ability to perform. Furthermore, the ankle is one of the most commonly injured body regions in dance. An understanding of ankle anatomy and biomechanics is not only important for healthcare providers working with dancers, but for dance scientists, dance instructors, and dancers themselves. The bony architecture, the soft tissue restraints, and the locomotive structures all integrate to allow the athletic artistry of dance. Yet, there is still much research to be carried out in order to more completely understand the ankle of the dancer.
Russell
Jeffrey A
JA
University of Wolverhampton School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure, Walsall, United Kingdom. jrussell@kardia.org
McEwan
Islay M
IM
Koutedakis
Yiannis
Y
Wyon
Matthew A
MA
D000843:Ankle Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003615:Dancing / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008023:Ligaments, Articular; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology