Qualitative Analysis of Risk Factors and Foot and Ankle Injuries in Ballet Dancers

Abstract

Background: Ballet dancers are exposed to high rates of foot and ankle injury. Nevertheless, there have been limited efforts to capture their perspectives regarding risk of injury, treatment compliance, and prevention. The purpose of this study was to portray the perspectives of ballet dancers collected through organized focus group discussions. Methods: Seven focus group sessions were conducted, with 47 ballet dancers participating. The conversation was directed to consider a variety of factors related to injury, both direct and remote. Transcripts from these focus groups were coded into ten major themes: internal pressure, external pressure, ballet milestones, seeking treatment, treatment compliance, targeted treatment, return to dance, nondance activities, physical fatigue, and activity preparation. Results: It was found that participants returned to dancing prematurely after injury, faced significant internal and external pressure, lacked adherence to suggested treatment, and identified provider communication as lacking. Conclusions: The results of this study can help with efforts to reduce injuries, encourage treatment compliance, and improve injury prevention. Future studies might consider the effectiveness of specific interventional approaches.