Using Balance Tests to Assess Injury Risk and Make Return-to-Activity Decisions in Dancers

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Abstract:
ATs working with dancers use balance tests in their clinical practice to: (1) identify dancers at higher injury risk, or (2) make return-to-activity, performance, or progress decisions after injury. However, multiple balance tests exist that examine different aspects of postural stability e.g. the Star Excursion Balance Test(SEBT), and others. ATs may thus face a practice gap and find it challenging to decide which test(s) to choose when providing optimal patient-care. This program intends to fill this gap by providing participants evidence-based guidance on how and which balance tests to choose to improve their patient-centered care based on their patients’ goals.

Learning Objectives:

  • Participants will be able to describe common balance tests used for dancers and performing arts. 
  • Participants will be able to analyze different postural stability components assessed by balance tests.
  • Participants will be able to compare balance tests on their abilities to predict injury risk and progress in dancers and performing artists.

Level:
Essential

CEUs:
0.75 Category A

Keywords: balance test, dancer, injury, risk

On-Demand (Enhanced Access) Course Expiration:
Courses registered for after February 5, 2025, must be completed by December 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CST.
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Jatin Ambegaonkar, PhD, ATC

Dr. Jatin P. Ambegaonkar, Ph.D. AT OT CSCS FIADMS is a Professor in the School of Kinesiology, College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University.

He works with people to help them perform better, reduce their injury risk, and improve their overall health using research and evidence-based translational approaches that combine laboratory and community engagement.

Dr. Ambegaonkar is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, serves on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Athletic Training, and is a reviewer for over 25 different professional journals. He serves as a board director for the International Association for Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS) and has chaired its Research Committee. He also serves on the Executive Board of the Hylton Performing Arts Center and chairs its Strategic Planning Committee.

Dr. Ambegaonkar is the founding co-director of the Sports Medicine Assessment Research & Testing (SMART) Laboratory, which focuses on injury prevention, neuromechanical assessment, concussions, and sports performance across the lifespan. He has published over 80 articles and given over 150 regional, national, and international conference presentations.

He is a co-editor of Research Methods in the Dance Sciences, a pioneering textbook in the Dance Medicine and Science field.

Dr. Ambegaonkar has secured over $ 6.4 million in funds over 30 different grants from multiple sponsors including federal, state, professional organizations, and local foundations e.g., National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Americans for the Arts (AFTA), Potomac Health Foundation (PHF) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH) in collaboration with faculty colleagues.

Professionally, Dr. Ambegaonkar is a Certified Athletic Trainer, Certified Strength, and Conditioning Specialist, and Occupational Therapist



Series Content Where I am Featured:
Using Balance Tests to Assess Injury Risk and Make Return-to-Activity Decisions in Dancers

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