The progression into pointe shoes is an exciting time for aspiring ballerinas. However, if this transition happens prematurely; pointe shoes have the ability to cause significant injury.
What is a pre pointe assessment?
A pre pointe assessment enables your podiatrist to evaluate your readiness to commence dancing en pointe. The assessment will be conducted by a podiatrist with a thorough understanding of ballet syllabus. The assessment takes into account many important considerations.
These may include:
-Age
-Ballet training history
-Previous injury
-Intrinsic foot and lower limb strength
-How well the dancer can maintain their turnout
-Current pointe range (plantarflexion range of the foot)
-Abdominal strength
-Strength of releves & single leg rises
-Overall dancing technique and postural alignment.
Why do I need a pre pointe assessment?
A pre pointe assessment is paramount to ensure the dancers safety before transitioning into pointe shoes. Whilst dancing en pointe, the dancers entire body weight rests primarily on their big toe. Therefore, dancing in pointe shoes too early when adequate strength and technique are absent can lead to serious injury and chronic foot issues.
When should I have a pre pointe assessment?
Pre pointe assessments should be completed approximately six months before your ballet class is due to commence pointe. For Cecchetti dancers this is Grade 5 and for Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) this is Intermediate Foundation. A six-month pre pointe time frame will allow the dancer to practise tailored exercises given at the pre pointe assessment and allow them to build the necessary strength to commence pointe work safely.
Can I get my pointe shoes straight after a pre pointe assessment?
In most cases, there will be several elements in a dancer’s technique that will need improvement before they are deemed ready to dance en pointe. Intrinsic foot strengthening, calf exercises, abdominal stability and movement control are areas commonly highlighted in pre pointe assessments. Once exercises and pre pointe training have been prescribed by your podiatrist, the dancer will be reviewed accordingly over the following months.
What do I wear?
A pre pointe assessment involves both static and functional exercises. Please wear either your leotard with convertible tights or suitable activewear to ensure your podiatrist can examine and observe your posture and overall movement. Please bring your current ballet slippers and runners along to your assessment.
How long will the appointment take?
A pre pointe assessment will take approximately sixty minutes.
How much does it cost?
An initial pre pointe assessment consultation costs $110.
Patients who have a valid Medicare EPC in place who wish to use for Pre-Pointe Assessment will be required to pay for the consultation and will receive a rebate from Medicare after their appointment.
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