Psychic Symptoms and Self-Esteem in Dancers

INTRODUCTION

The mental health of the human being and a higher level of the self-esteem have the positive effects on the peace surrounding, stability, success and the personal satisfaction of any individual. The fundamental opinion is that the dance has the affect on the body and the psychical health of the people. To explore if the dancers have their less-expressed psychical symptoms and higher self-esteem.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The examination was performed on the sample of 310 examinees, mostly of the young life age and who identified themselves as the dancers or non-dancers. For the requirements of the investigation there were used the socio-demographic question-form, the psychical symptoms estimation scale (RCL-90-R) and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES).

RESULTS

The dancers show the smaller appearance of the psychical symptoms and that almost in all sub-scales, but their difference is not statistically significant. The statistically significant difference among the men and the women was recorded in the subscales of the somatisations, then the interpersonal vulnerability, the depression, the anxiety and the phobias. The dancers possess their higher self-esteem then the non-dancers, but statistically their difference is not significant. Comparing the results against the sex, the persons of the female sex possess the higher self-respect than the persons of the male sex.

CONCLUSION

The dancers possess less of the psychical symptoms and their higher self-esteem than the non-dancers, but the difference within the results is not significant statistically.

Polysubstance use profiles among electronic dance music party attendees in New York City and their relation to use of new psychoactive substances

BACKGROUND

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) party attendees are often polysubstance users and are at high risk for use of new psychoactive substances (NPS). We sought to identify patterns of use of common illegal drugs among EDM party attendees, sociodemographic correlates, and use of NPS as a function of patterns of use of more common drugs to inform prevention and harm reduction.

METHOD

Using time-space-sampling, 1045 individuals aged 18-40 were surveyed entering EDM parties in New York City. We queried past-year use of common illegal drugs and 98 NPS. We conducted latent class analysis to identify polysubstance use profiles of use of eight common drugs (i.e., ecstasy, ketamine, LSD, mushrooms, powder cocaine, marijuana, amphetamine, benzodiazepines). Relationships between drug classification membership and sociodemographics and use of drugs within six NPS categories were examined.

RESULTS

We identified four profiles of use of common drugs: non-polysubstance use (61.1%), extensive polysubstance use (19.2%), moderate polysubstance use/stimulants (12.8%), and moderate polysubstance use/psychedelics (6.7%). Those in the moderate/psychedelic group were at higher odds of using NPS with psychedelic-type effects (2C, tryptamines, and other "new" psychedelics; Ps<0.05). Extensive polysubstance users were at increased odds of reporting use of 2C drugs, synthetic cathinones ("bath salts"), tryptamines, other new (non-phenethylamine) psychedelics, new dissociatives, and synthetic cannabinoids (Ps<0.05).

CONCLUSION

NPS preference is linked to the profile of use of common drugs among individuals in the EDM scene. Most participants were identified as non-polysubstance users, but findings may help inform preventive and harm reduction interventions among those at risk in this scene.

Eating Disorders in Non-Dance Performing Artists: A Systematic Literature Review

PURPOSE

Previous literature on dancers and athletes has shown a large impact of eating disorders (EDs) on these individuals, but there is limited research on EDs affecting non-dance performing artists (i.e., musicians, actors, etc.). This systematic review aimed to identify and evaluate the literature on EDs in non-dance performing artists.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed on 24 databases, using search terms related to EDs and non-dance performing artists. All results from the databases were systematically screened for inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The initial search returned 86,383 total articles, which after screening and removal of duplicates and irrelevant papers yielded 129 results. After screening the 129 full-text results for eligibility, 10 studies met criteria for inclusion: 6 papers addressed EDs in musicians, and 4 papers addressed EDs in theatre performers. Most studies used questionnaires and body mass index (BMI) as diagnostic tools for EDs. Most were small-scale studies and participants were mostly students. Because of the studies' heterogeneity and varying quality, the results obtained were often contradictory and questionable.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there has been a lot of literature in dancers, we found relatively few studies associating EDs with other performing artists, and most were inconsistent in their information.

Epidemiology of Dance-Related Injuries Presenting to Emergency Departments in the United States, 2000-2013

Dance is a popular activity associated with many physical and mental health benefits, but injuries are a concern for all skill levels. Previous studies have focused on professional dancers or particular genres, meaning the population-wide characteristics of injuries is unknown. This study's objective was to identify the incidence and types of dance-related injuries evaluated in emergency departments in the United States over the 14-year period 2000-2013.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the nationally representative National Electronic Injury Surveillance System from 2000-2013. National estimates of injuries were determined using complex sample design. Trends using 2-year intervals were calculated using linear regression and injury proportion ratios using Pearson's X2.

RESULTS

The average annual incidence of dance-related injuries requiring emergency medical attention was 17,145 per year. The number of injuries grew from 14,204 in 2000/1 to 21,356 in 2012/3, a change of 33.4% after accounting for population growth. Lower limb injuries were most common, particularly ankle and knee sprains. Females presented with a greater proportion of ankle (injury proportion ratio [IPR]=1.34, p=0.029) and foot sprains (IPR=2.11, p<0.001) but a lower proportion of shoulder sprains (IPR=0.41, p<0.001) and face lacerations (IPR=0.13, p<0.001). Younger dancers presented with a lower proportion of knee (IPR=0.79, p=0.006) and low back sprains (IPR=0.68, p=0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The average annual incidence of dance-related injuries of a serious enough nature to require presentation to the emergency department in the United States was 17,145 per year, with ankle and knee sprains being the most common. Injury numbers have increased in recent years.

Assessment of DNA damage in a group of professional dancers during a 10-month dancing season

Despite the numerous health benefits of physical activity, some studies reported that increased intensity and duration may induce oxidative stress in several cellular components including DNA. The aim of this study was to assess the level of basal DNA damage as well as oxidative DNA damage in a group of professional dancers before and after a 10-month dancing season. A group of individuals from general population was also assessed as a control. The alkaline version of the comet assay was the method selected to measure both basal DNA damage and oxidative stress, since this method quantifies both endpoints. In order to measure oxidative stress, the comet assay was coupled with a lesion-specific endonuclease (formamidopyrimidine glycosylase) to detect oxidized purines. The levels of oxidative DNA damage in dancers were significantly increased after the dancing season. Pre-season levels of oxidative DNA damage were lower in dancers than those obtained from the general population, suggesting an adaptation of antioxidant system in dancers. Results of the present biomonitoring study indicate the need for more effective measures to protect ballet dancers from potentially occupational health risks related to regular intensive physical exercise.

Injuries Among Italian DanceSport Athletes: A Questionnaire Survey

During training and competition, athletic dancers perform complex artistic movements that can lead to stress on the musculoskeletal system, making them subject to high risk of injury. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, location, and nature of musculoskeletal injuries among dancesport athletes and to identify potential risk factors for injury. This cross-sectional study was performed at several national dancesport meetings in Italy. All 168 dancesport athletes who participated at the meetings were invited to complete a questionnaire related to injuries they may have suffered during the previous year; other information collected included demographic data (age, sex, height, weight), dance participation (discipline, categories), training (training duration, years since starting to dance), and injury (location, etiology). Of the 168 dancers, 153 completed the questionnaire. Of the 102 injuries reported, 73 athletes (47.7%) reported at least 1 injury. The locations of the injuries were the lower limbs (n=75, 73.5%), upper limbs (8, 7.8%), and spine (19, 18.7%). Significant differences were found in the injury location (p<0.01) as well as the nature of the injury (p<0.01). No significant differences were found between injured and non-injured athletes in demographic data, dance participation, and training variables (p>0.05). The results indicate that about half of the dancers reported at least 1 injury, with these being located particularly in the lower limbs and predominantly strain and sprain injuries. To reduce the prevalence of injuries, a prevention program may be indicated, with future research needed to identify appropriate strategies to prevent injuries.

Exploring Dance Movement Data Using Sequence Alignment Methods

Despite the abundance of research on knowledge discovery from moving object databases, only a limited number of studies have examined the interaction between moving point objects in space over time. This paper describes a novel approach for measuring similarity in the interaction between moving objects. The proposed approach consists of three steps. First, we transform movement data into sequences of successive qualitative relations based on the Qualitative Trajectory Calculus (QTC). Second, sequence alignment methods are applied to measure the similarity between movement sequences. Finally, movement sequences are grouped based on similarity by means of an agglomerative hierarchical clustering method. The applicability of this approach is tested using movement data from samba and tango dancers.

Traumatic injuries in professional dance-past and present: ballet injuries in Berlin, 1994/95 and 2011/12

OBJECTIVE

The physical requirement profile for professional dancers has changed significantly during the past decades. The aim of this first comparative study is to present a differentiated analysis of work-related traumatic injuries sustained by professional ballet dancers at the end of the 20th century (1994/95) and now (2011/12).

METHODS

The data for evaluation were obtained from work accident reports (n=241; 1994/95, n=155; 2011/12, n=86) from three Berlin theatres.

RESULTS

An increase in incidence of injuries could be observed only in male dancers (0.3 injuries/yr in 1994/95 vs 0.4/yr in 2011/12). Numerous significant differences were found between injuries in the earlier time span and in the present. Movement contents resulting in traumatic injuries have changed. Furthermore, differences as to injury types, injured body region, nature of causes, dance activities prior to injury, and attitude after sustaining an occupational accident were observed. The lower extremity remained the most common injury site (66.7% in 1994/95 vs 57.0% in 2011/12, p=0.697. (The frequency rate of traumatic injuries to the spine has increased significantly (13.5% in 1994/95 vs 24.1% in 2011/12, p=0.026, (with injuries to the lumbar spine region more than tripled (5.8% vs 20.3% respectively). Few deviations were observed as to injury locations and organizational and time aspects (e.g., time of year of injury).

CONCLUSION

Dance is progressing as evidenced by the numerous aspects resulting in traumatic injuries. It is not organizational or time changes but rather work- and content-related factors that result in significant differences between past and present injuries.

A longitudinal examination of the relationship between perfectionism and motivational climate in dance

The present study examined the relationship between dance-related perfectionism and perceptions of motivational climate in dance over time. In doing so, three possibilities were tested: (a) perfectionism affects perceptions of the motivational climate, (b) perceptions of the motivational climate affect perfectionism, and (c) the relationship is reciprocal. Two hundred seventy-one young dancers (M = 14.21 years old, SD = 1.96) from UK Centres for Advanced Training completed questionnaires twice, approximately 6 months apart. Cross-lagged analysis indicated that perfectionistic concerns led to increased perceptions of an ego-involving climate and decreased perceptions of a task-involving climate over time. In addition, perceptions of a task-involving climate led to increased perfectionistic strivings over time. The findings suggest that perfectionistic concerns may color perceptions of training/performing environments so that mistakes are deemed unacceptable and only superior performance is valued. They also suggest that perceptions of a task-involving climate in training/performing environments may encourage striving for excellence and perfection without promoting excessive concerns regarding their attainment.

Fit to dance survey: a comparison with dancesport injuries

The Fit to Dance survey has been conducted twice previously, in 1993 and 2002, without dancesport participants. The purpose of this present online survey was to supplement a comparison of dancesport against the earlier results. The current study had a greater percentage of male respondents than previous studies (43% vs 24% and 26%). The dancesport participants were older (28% at 40+ yrs vs 3% and 1%) and more likely to have normal (69% vs 57%) to overweight BMI (18% vs 2%). Dancesport participants spent more time in various non-dancing conditioning activities than previous surveys (5.2 ± 3.9 hrs SD vs 1.9 ± 2.5 and 2.2 ± 2.7). Muscles and joints were the most common type of injury in all the surveys. The knee was the top injury site in this survey, with lower back in previous surveys. The main perceived cause of injury was repetitive movements, whereas fatigue and overwork were cited in the previous surveys. Physiotherapists were the most common type of medical professionals from whom the dancers sought treatment for their injuries in all surveys. The first survey included recommendations that the present survey results agree with, including: dancers should be physically fit, dancers should warm up and cool down, dancers should never have to work in unsuitable environments, and dancers should receive immediate high-quality treatment for injuries.

Knee injury patterns in young irish dancers

OBJECTIVE

To characterize knee injury patterns in Irish dancers.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed for Irish dancers under age 19 who presented with knee injuries to the sports medicine or orthopedic clinic from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2010. Data were collected on all knee injuries partially or directly related to Irish dance. Injury was defined as dance-related pain or damage to the structures in the knee that resulted in evaluation in the clinic. Survey data were collected to determine the number of different schools/studios represented by the dancers in the study.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven Irish dancers with 86 knee injuries were evaluated. Half (50.7%) of these patients received more than one diagnosis during these visits. Overuse injuries accounted for 90.7% of knee injuries. Time to presentation ranged from less than 1 week to over 1 year. There was a significant difference in time to presentation, with traumatic injuries being evaluated sooner than overuse injuries. The most common diagnoses, accounting for 53.5% of injuries, were patellar tracking disorders, including patellofemoral syndrome, hypermobile patella, and patellar subluxation.

CONCLUSION

In Irish dance overuse injuries represent the great majority of knee injuries, and patellofemoral tracking disorders are the most common diagnosis. For many dancers, there is often a delay of weeks to months between the onset of symptoms and evaluation in clinic. Prevention programs could potentially eliminate a large portion of knee pain experienced by young Irish dancers.

Walking or dancing: patterns of physical activity by cross-sectional age among U.S. women

OBJECTIVES

To identify age differences in physical activity (PA) participation for women.

METHODS

Data from 3,952 women 25+ from the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) were used to analyze participation patterns for 17 PA types.

RESULTS

The top five leisure PAs by participation rate for all ages were walking (42%), dancing (20%), treadmill (15%), biking (11%), and yoga (10%). Participation in running, dancing, treadmill, and team sports declined around ages 35 to 44, and participation in household PA, walking, weightlifting, and hiking declined around ages 55 to 64. At age 75+ further substantial decline in most activities occurred. Nativity status was the most important moderator for age-related PA decline.

CONCLUSIONS

Total PA declines with age but significant decline does not occur until ages 55 to 64. Major decline in leisure PA participation starts earlier at ages 35 to 44. While age-related declining patterns differ for different activities, the top five most popular leisure activities are similar for all age groups.

Correlations Between General Joint Hypermobility and Joint Hypermobility Syndrome and Injury in Contemporary Dance Students

The first objective of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of general joint hypermobility (GJH) and joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) in BA Dance Theatre 1st and 3rd year students at a contemporary dance conservatory. The second objective was to determine the statistical correlation between GJH, JHS, and injury in this population. A total of 85 (female, N = 78; male, N = 7) contemporary dance students participated in the study. The Beighton score (with a forward flexion test modification) was used to determine GJH, and the Brighton criteria were used to verify JHS. Participants completed a self-reported injury questionnaire that included type of injury (physical complaint, medical diagnosis, or time-loss) and injury frequency. Statistical analysis (Pearson correlation) was used to correlate GJH, JHS, and frequency-of-injury scores. Overall, 69% of the students were found to have GJH, and 33% had JHS. A statistical correlation of r = + 0.331 (p < 0.01) was found between JHS and injury. No significant correlation was found between GJH and injury. This is the first study to look at these correlations in contemporary dance students and suggests that screening programs should include the Brighton criteria to identify JHS in these dancers. Subsequent injury tracking and injury prevention programs would then provide data for further research in this area.

Descriptive epidemiology of dance participation in adolescents

The aims of this study were to describe the prevalence of dance participation in U.S. adolescents and to estimate the contribution of dance to total moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). The sample was composed of 3,598 adolescents from the 2003-06 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Youth reported frequency and duration of physical activities performed in the past month. Dance participation prevalence was calculated; among those who reported dance, its contribution to total MVPA was estimated. The prevalence of dance was much higher in girls (34.8%) than boys (8.4%). Girls had a greater contribution of dance to total MVPA (39.3%) than boys (23.0%). Dance is a prevalent form of physical activity among girls, and it accounts for a substantial fraction of their total MVPA.

Perceived autonomy support, motivation regulations and the self-evaluative tendencies of student dancers

Limited research has considered the social-environmental and motivational processes predictive of self evaluations and body-related concerns. Evidence suggests that low self-esteem, poor body evaluations, and associated anxieties are particularly prevalent among the student dance population. Grounded in self-determination theory (SDT), this study examined the relationships among perceptions of autonomy support, motivation regulations, and self-evaluations of body-related concerns in the context of vocational dance. Three hundred and ninety-two dancers completed questionnaires regarding their perceptions of autonomy support in their dance school, reasons for engaging in dance, self-esteem, social physique anxiety (SPA), and body dissatisfaction. Structural equation modeling analyses revealed that perceived autonomy support predicted intrinsic motivation (+) and amotivation (-). Extrinsic regulation positively predicted SPA. Amotivation mediated the associations between perceptions of autonomy support and dancers' self-esteem, SPA, and body dissatisfaction. The utility of SDT in understanding predictors of self-worth, physical evaluations, and associated concerns was supported. Moreover, this study provides preliminary evidence supporting the applicability of SDT in dance contexts.

Review of acetabular labral tears in dancers

Over the past decade numerous articles have been published regarding the hip labrum. Injuries to the labrum are becoming better understood as biomechanical, kinematic, and diagnostic technologies improve. When the last article on acetabular labral tears appeared in the Journal of Dance Medicine and Science in 2006, this injury was widely handled surgically by debridement. Just 5 years later, we see a shift toward preservation and repair of the labrum and correction of morphology when possible. This change in philosophy has come about as new information on the function of the labrum and the stresses placed upon it at extremes of hip range of motion became available. It is now felt that an intact labrum is useful for preserving the hip's articular cartilage. The change in surgical technique has also necessitated a change in rehabilitation protocols focused on protecting the healing labrum and chondral surface. The vast majority of research available for analysis has not been addressed specifically to a dance population, yet most is relevant and helpful in determining better treatment for dancers. This article reviews the latest available data on labral function, stresses on the labrum resulting from dance, clinical and diagnostic detection of labral tears, and outcomes of labral tear treatment in the young athletic population, including dancers. Recommendations are offered to improve data collection and focus for future research.

Comparative analysis of substance use in ballet, dance sport, and synchronized swimming: results of a longitudinal study

There have been few studies comparing substance use and misuse (SU&M) in different performing arts forms. Herein, we identified and compared SU&M in women studying an art (ballet, n = 21), a non-Olympic sport (dance sport, n = 25), and an Olympic sport (synchronized swimming, n = 23). The sample of variables comprised general, educational, and sport factors, as well as SU&M data, including consumption of opiates, cigarettes, alcohol, nutritional supplements, doping behaviors, and beliefs. Using the Kruskal-Wallis test, we found no significant differences between study groups in potential doping behaviors. Most of the examinees reported that they did not rely on physicians' and/or coaches' opinions regarding doping. Only sport dancers recognized their consumption of cannabis as a violation of anti-doping rules. Those more convinced that doping habits are present in their sport (or art) have a certain tendency toward doping usage. In conclusion, a strong anti-doping campaign within the studied arts is suggested, focusing on the health-related problems of SU&M.

Relatively high bone mineral density in Chinese adolescent dancers despite lower energy intake and menstrual disorder

OBJECTIVE

The effect of dietary restriction, intense exercise and menstrual dysfunction on bone mineral density remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the skeletal health status and relationship between bone mineral density and nutrient intake, menstrual status, estrogen level and other factos in Chinese adolescent dancers.

METHODS

Sixty dancers and 77 healthy controls underwent measurements of bone density, body composition, and estrogen level. Nutrient intake, menstrual status and physical activity were assessed with questionnaires. The correlation between these factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

The dancers under study had a significantly lean body mass index (18.3 +/- 1.4 kg/m2 vs. 21.7 +/- 3.1 kg/m2), lower percentage of body fat (0.25 +/- 0.05 vs. 0.34 +/- 0.04) and later age at menarche (14.0 +/- 0.9 y vs. 13.0 +/- 1.3 y), and the estrogen level, daily calorie and fat intake in them were also lower than in the controls. All the dancers undertook intensive physical activity every day and up to 69% of them suffered from irregular menarche. Yet they had relatively high BMD and BMC of the total body and legs than the controls after adjusting for BMI and age. Site-specific BMD was positively correlated to BMI, body composition and training hours per week and negatively correlated to the age at menarche and menstrual frequency.

CONCLUSIONS

The relatively high BMD and BMC of the dancers at the total body and legs were probably caused by high levels of weight-bearing physical activity. To ameliorate disordered eating, especially low energy intake might be helpful to prevent the Triad and to improve the bone health in adolescent dancers.

Dance and sexuality: many moves

This literature review of dance and sexual expression considers dance and religion, dance and sexuality as a source of power, manifestations of sexuality in Western theater art and social dance, plus ritual and non-Western social dance. Expressions of gender, sexual orientation, asexuality, ambiguity, and adult entertainment exotic dance are presented. Prominent concerns in the literature are the awareness, closeting, and denial of sexuality in dance; conflation of sexual expression and promiscuity of gender and sexuality, of nudity and sexuality, and of dancer intention and observer interpretation; and inspiration for infusing sexuality into dance. Numerous disciplines (American studies, anthropology, art history, comparative literature, criminology, cultural studies, communication, dance, drama, English, history, history of consciousness, journalism, law, performance studies, philosophy, planning, retail geography, psychology, social work, sociology, and theater arts) have explored dance and sexual expression, drawing upon the following concepts, which are not mutually exclusive: critical cultural theory, feminism, colonialism, Orientalism, postmodernism, poststructuralism, queer theory, and semiotics. Methods of inquiry include movement analysis, historical investigation, anthropological fieldwork, autoethnography, focus groups, surveys, and self-reflection or autobiographical narrative. Directions for future exploration are addressed.

Exploring the social-environmental determinants of well- and ill-being in dancers: a test of basic needs theory

Grounded in the basic needs mini-theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000), this study examined the interplay among perceptions of the social environment manifested in vocational dance schools, basic need satisfaction, and indices of elite dancers' well- and ill-being. The hypothesized mediating role of need satisfaction was also tested. Dancers (N = 392) completed a questionnaire tapping the targeted variables. Structural equation modeling supported a model in which perceptions of task-involving dance environments positively predicted need satisfaction. Perceived ego-involving climates negatively corresponded with competence and relatedness. Perceptions of autonomy support were positively related to autonomy and relatedness. Need satisfaction positively predicted positive affect. Competence and relatedness satisfaction corresponded negatively to reported negative affect. Emotional and physical exhaustion was not related to need satisfaction. Partial support emerged for the assumed mediation of the needs. Results highlight the relevance of task-involving and autonomy-supportive dance climates for elite dancers' need satisfaction and healthful engagement in vocational dance.

Health care seeking behavior and perceptions of the medical profession among pre- and post-retirement age Dutch dancers

A cross-sectional, descriptive survey and a medical chart review of 154 pre- and post-retirement age injured Dutch dancers were performed. The purpose was to examine dancers' health care seeking behavior and perceptions of the medical profession in context of the current health care system in The Netherlands, which includes both universal access and expertise in performing arts medicine. No logistical or perceptual restrictions to health care were reported by the dancers in this study. Only three younger dancers (< 35 years) lacked a primary care physician. No dancer reported monetary or insurance hindrances to acquiring an appointment or fear of going to the doctor. A small percentage of the younger group (18%), but none of the older dancers, reported that they felt the doctor would not understand them (chi(2) = 2.2, df = 1, p = 0.14). Dancers in both age groups most often sought first treatment from either a physiotherapist (36% to 40%) or a medical doctor (38.8% to 40.8%). When a physician was not consulted first, the primary reason was that dancers had already seen a physiotherapist and thought this treatment was sufficient. Approximately one-third of dancers expected their medical problem to go away on its own. Dutch dancers were additionally found to have a positive relationship with the medical profession, including high satisfaction and confidence. The majority of dancers were satisfied or very satisfied with their medical treatment prior to presenting to the dance medicine specialist (67% older dancers, 52% younger, chi(2) = 1.19, df = 1, p = 0.2). Nearly every dancer was satisfied or very satisfied after treatment by the specialist (100% older dancers, 93% younger dancers, chi(2) = 1.46, df = 1, p = 0.2), and moderately or completely confident of full recovery (80%, each group). Differences in older and younger dancers' perceptions and behaviors were nevertheless found. Older dancers were significantly more likely to continue to dance when injured than younger dancers (100% versus 82%, chi(2) = 5.14, df = 1, p = 0.02), although pain and perceived level of artistic hindrance were similar between the groups at first presentation to a dance medicine clinic (pain: 32.6 versus 34.0 mm, respectively, p = 0.83; artistic hindrance: 49.3 versus 58.0 mm, p = 0.29, respectively). Older dancers were more likely to wait and see for themselves whether an injury would get better by itself (14% versus 4%, chi(2) = 4.1, df = 1, p = 0.05). Average time to seek treatment from a medical doctor was four times longer among older than younger dancers (8.4 versus 2.1 months, respectively, p = 0.004), and older dancers had less confidence in full recovery at first visit (40% versus 61%, chi(2) = 3.8, df = 1, p = 0.05). Thus, the medical system of The Netherlands is one that confers improved health care access and perceptions of the medical profession among dancers, yet there remain areas to be addressed in terms of equalization of health care delivery.

A profile of the demographics and training characteristics of professional modern dancers

Modern dancers are a unique group of artists, performing a diverse repertoire in dance companies of various sizes. In this study, 184 professional modern dancers in the United States (males N=49, females N=135), including members of large and small companies as well as freelance dancers, were surveyed regarding their demographics and training characteristics. The mean age of the dancers was 30.1 +/- 7.3 years, and they had danced professionally for 8.9 +/- 7.2 years. The average Body Mass Index (BMI) was 23.6 +/- 2.4 for males and 20.5 +/- 1.7 for females. Females had started taking dance class earlier (age 6.5 +/- 4.2 years) as compared to males (age 15.6 +/- 6.2 years). Females were more likely to have begun their training in ballet, while males more often began with modern classes (55% and 51% respectively, p < 0.0001). The professional modern dancers surveyed spent 8.3 +/- 6.0 hours in class and 17.2 +/- 12.6 hours in rehearsal each week. Eighty percent took modern technique class and 67% reported that they took ballet technique class. The dancers who specified what modern technique they studied (N=84) reported between two and four different techniques. The dancers also participated in a multitude of additional exercise regimens for a total of 8.2 +/- 6.6 hours per week, with the most common types being Pilates, yoga, and upper body weightlifting. The dancers wore many different types of footwear, depending on the style of dance being performed. For modern dance alone, dancers wore 12 different types of footwear. Reflecting the diversity of the dancers and companies surveyed, females reported performing for 23.3 +/- 14.0 weeks (range: 2-52 weeks) per year; males reported performing 20.4 +/- 13.9 weeks (range: 1-40) per year. Only 18% of the dancers did not have any health insurance, with 54% having some type of insurance provided by their employer. However, 23% of the dancers purchased their own insurance, and 22% had insurance provided by their families. Only 16% of dancers reported that they had Workers' Compensation coverage, despite the fact that they were all professionals, including many employed by major modern dance companies across the United States. It is concluded that understanding the training profile of the professional modern dancer should assist healthcare providers in supplying appropriate medical care for these performers.

[Positive and negative social representation of ecstasy among consumers in Coimbra (Portugal)]

The positive and negative representations of ecstasy were studied in a sample of 223 young people who consumed ecstasy in the city of Coimbra, recruited using the snowball technique. With regard to negative representations they highlight the harmful effects on the brain, with regard to positive effects they highlight the pleasure associated with dancing. The consumers acknowledge the negative representations but consider the positive representations much more important. Rating of the positive representations does not vary according to frequency of consumption, number of pills consumed or whether or not they are polyconsumers. However, those with more negative representations show less abusive consumption patterns. Implications for prevention are discussed.

Comparative study of body image among dancers and anorexic girls

In order to examine the nature of body image distortions, we studied their perceptual and idealised components using a video distortion technique to create photographs of dancers, anorexics and controls that made their bodies look larger. Each subject was then asked to adjust the photograph until it reflected her estimated and desired body size. The results show that: 1) all three groups perceived themselves to be heavier than they actually are, but the dancers had a more realistic perception of their body weight; 2) the dancers would have liked to be thinner, whereas the controls and anorexics were satisfied with their body weight; 3) the scores of the anorexic subjects were characterised by a lack of correlation between their perceptual and idealised distortions, whereas those of the dancers--and even more so those of the controls--were characterised by consistency between the two types of distortion.

Two-phase survey of eating disorders in gifted dance and non-dance high-school students in Taiwan

BACKGROUND

Despite a growing body of literature reporting eating disorders (EDs) in non-Western countries in recent years, most of these studies are limited to questionnaire-based surveys or case-series studies. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlates of EDs in Taiwanese high-school students.

METHODS

The study subjects consisted of all the female high-school students enrolled in the gifted dance class in 2003 in Taiwan (n=655) and non-dance female students randomly chosen from the same school (n=1251). All the participants were asked to complete self-report questionnaires, including the 26-item Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and the Bulimic Investigatory Test Edinburgh (BITE). All the screen positives and an approximate 10% random sample of the screen negatives were then interviewed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders Patient Version (SCID-I/P).

RESULTS

The prevalence of individual EDs was much higher in the dance [0.7% for anorexia nervosa (AN), 2.5% for bulimia nervosa (BN) and 4.8% for EDs, not otherwise specified (EDNOS)] than in the non-dance (0.1, 1.0 and 0.7% respectively) students. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that being in the dance class, higher concern about body shape and lower family support were correlates of EDs for all students, whereas lower parental education level was associated with EDs only for non-dance students.

CONCLUSION

EDs were more prevalent in the weight-concerned subpopulation. Although AN is still rare, BN has emerged as a comparable prevalent disorder in Taiwan, as in Western countries.

Drug and alcohol-impaired driving among electronic music dance event attendees

BACKGROUND

Drug-impaired driving has received increased attention resulting from development of rapid drug-screening procedures used by police and state laws establishing per se limits for drug levels in drivers. Venues that host electronic music dance events (EMDEs) provide a unique opportunity to assess drug-impaired driving among a high proportion of young adult drug users. EMDEs are late-night dance parties marked by a substantial number of young adult attendees and elevated drug involvement. No studies to date have examined drug-impaired driving in a natural environment with active drug and alcohol users.

METHODS

Six EMDEs were sampled in San Diego, California, and Baltimore, Maryland. A random sample of approximately 40 attendees per event were administered surveys about alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and driving status, given breath tests for alcohol, and asked to provide oral fluid samples to test for illicit drug use upon entering and exiting the events.

RESULTS

Driving status reduced the level of alcohol use (including abstaining) but the impact on drug-taking was not significant. However, 62% of individuals who reported their intention to drive away from the events were positive for drugs or alcohol upon leaving. This suggests that these events and settings are appropriate ones for developing interventions for reducing risks for young adults.

Führt eine Schallpegelabsenkung in Diskotheken zu einem Rückgang der Besucher?

BACKGROUND

This study investigated whether adolescents are likely to decrease their frequency of discotheque attendance if the sound levels are lowered moderately.

METHODS

A sample of 1,213 high school students aged between 13 and 20 years (mean: 15.8 years) were given a questionnaire and asked their views on the current sound levels at discotheques, and whether they would change their attendance if the levels were somewhat lower.

RESULTS

Some 53.7% of the respondents wished to keep the current sound levels, while only 2.5% preferred a raise, and 43.8% a decrease. In the case of a moderate decrease, 85% of respondents would not change their frequency of discotheque attendance, while 5% would reduce it, and 10% would increase it.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study contradict the fears of discotheque operators that adolescents would visit the discotheque less frequently if the sound levels are lowered moderately. To prove the effects of a sound level reduction, however, separate studies are needed.

[Prevalence and associated factors with pain in professional dancers]

PURPOSE

To investigate factors associated to pain in ballet dancers as well its prevalence.

METHODS

We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study among 141 professional ballet dancers from the main capitals of Northeastern Brazil. In order to evaluate the symptoms of pain we used Portuguese official versions of the McGill Protocol and the Pain Inventory of Wisconsin. For statistical analysis of the results we performed a descriptive assessment, followed by T-Student and Pearson's Correlation tests (taking a value of p < 0.05).

RESULTS

We observed high levels of pain tolerance in 70.2% of the subjects, in which the intensity varied from moderate to severe. The lumbar region was the most affected (85.8%). We observed positive correlations concerning the intensity degree of pain with activities such as dancing (60.3%), sleeping (28.4%), marching (20.6%), general activities (32.6%), mood (27.7%), and personal relations (16.3%).

CONCLUSION

We observed a high prevalence of pain in professional ballet dancers from the main Northeastern capitals, attacking mostly the lumbar region, followed by knees, neck, hip and feet, with substantial interference of pain symptoms in several activities of the personal and professional lives of these people.

Physical activities and sedentary pursuits in African American and Caucasian girls

The purposes of this study were to describe and compare the specific physical activity choices and sedentary pursuits of African American and Caucasian American girls. Participants were 1,124 African American and 1,068 Caucasian American eighth-grade students from 31 middle schools. The 3-Day Physical Activity Recall (3DPAR) was used to measure participation in physical activities and sedentary pursuits. The most frequently reported physical activities were walking, basketball, jogging or running, bicycling, and social dancing. Differences between groups were found in 11 physical activities and 3 sedentary pursuits. Participation rates were higher in African American girls (p < or = .001) for social dancing, basketball, watching television, and church attendance but lower in calisthenics, ballet and other dance, jogging or running, rollerblading, soccer, softball or baseball, using an exercise machine, swimming, and homework. Cultural differences of groups should be considered when planning interventions to promote physical activity.

Medical problems related to recreational drug use at nocturnal dance parties

During 'I love techno' (edition 2001), an indoor rave party attended by 37 000 people, data about medical problems (especially drug-related problems) were collected. To place these data in a wider perspective, a similar registration was done during 'De Nacht', a traditional New Year's Eve dance party held at the same location and attended by 12 000 people. Furthermore, a prospective study on the time course of the level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Score) and blood concentrations of illicit drugs, especially gamma-hydroxybutyrate was set up. The results revealed that during 'I love techno' the incidence of medical problems was high (66.5/10 000 attendees), but not higher than during 'De Nacht' (70.0/10 000 attendees). At 'I love techno', however, mainly illicit drugs were used, more frequently leading to severe drug-related medical problems. The observations in patients with a drug-related medical problem who had taken gamma-hydroxybutyrate showed that for a given level of consciousness the gamma-hydroxybutyrate concentrations may show important differences, that the transition from coma (Glasgow Coma Score < or =7) to full recovery (Glasgow Coma Score 15) takes only 30-60 min (and only a small decrease in gamma-hydroxybutyrate concentrations), and that the time it takes before a comatose patient reaches the above-mentioned 'transition area' may be a few hours.

[Injuries and chronic damages in classic ballet]

From 1994 till 1996 there were examined 219 dancers (male and female) at 8 theatres because of typical injuries and damages. It was elevated an exactly anamnese and physical examination with regard to orthopedic peculiarity. The determined dates were documented on a standardized form and analyzed separately to the respective part of the body. It is an examination with the biggest figures in Europe. The destination is to avoid damages because of enlightenment and timely recognize of reasons. Incorrect training and not recognizing individual anatomical faults could make this job dangerous and emphasize these typical injuries and damages.

Influence of yard work and weight training on bone mineral density among older U.S. women

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of type of physical activity on bone mineral density among older U.S. women. Findings from the present study indicate that jogging, swimming and calisthenics were weak predictors for high bone density values. Bicycling, aerobics, walking and dancing were moderate predictors for positive bone density. Yard work and weight training were strong and independent predictors for positive bone density.

4-MTA: a new synthetic drug on the dance scene

4-MTA (p-methylthioamphetamine) is a new synthetic sulphur derivative of amphetamine that has been associated with six deaths since it was first identified in Europe in 1997. Sold as 'ecstasy' or 'Flatliners', the drug like MDMA is a potent serotonin releaser. Using a self-nominated sampling methodology we accessed over 1000 dance drug users through a magazine survey. Ten percent of respondents thought that they had used 4-MTA. Those with experience of 4-MTA tended to come from a sub-population of heavy 'ecstasy'-users. Responses to the effects of the drug were mixed, although about a quarter of those who believed that they had tried 4-MTA thought that they would use it again.

The NOTOM hypothesis for idiopathic scoliosis: is it nullified by the delayed puberty of female rhythmic gymnasts and ballet dancers with scoliosis?

Nachemson suggested that there are more girls than boys with progressive adolescent idiopathic because of a different timing between skeletal maturation and postural maturation in the sexes during adolescence. We termed Nachemson's concept the neuro-osseous timing of maturation (NOTOM) hypothesis and used it to propose a possible medical treatment for idiopathic scoliosis by delaying puberty through the pituitary using gonadorelin analogues as in idiopathic precocious puberty. The prevalence of scoliosis is reported to be increased in rhythmic gymnasts (RGs) in Bulgaria and in ballet dancers (BDs) in the USA. Both groups exhibit delayed puberty, which, at first sight, nullifies the NOTOM hypothesis for idiopathic scoliosis. While constitutional and environmental factors may determine these scolioses, the different curve types in RGs and BDs suggest that the exercise pattern over many years determines which type of scoliosis develops, although not the curve severity. We support the view that scoliotic RGs should be included in a group of sports-associated scoliosis separate from idiopathic scoliosis. Hence the delayed puberty of RGs and BDs with scoliosis does not nullify the NOTOM hypothesis as their scolioses are not idiopathic. There is a need to focus research on such subjects who have defined constitutional and environmental factors related to their scolioses.

Career hazards for the dancer

Most dance injuries are of the overuse variety. Their gradual onset, coupled with the intense competition for professional positions, often results in injuries being ignored and thus seen late in their course. While treatment of the specific injury is of paramount concern, maintenance of the extremes of flexibility, strength, and conditioning necessary to dance professionally is an equally important treatment element.

Eating disorders in athletes: a review of the literature

Over the last two decades an increasing amount of research has begun to examine the issue of eating disorders in athletes. While a number of studies in this area have been published, the results have not been able to clarify the nature of the relationship between athletic involvement and eating problems. This review critically evaluates existing studies of eating disorders in athletes, highlighting various methodological limitations. Studies are grouped under three main headings: uncontrolled studies; controlled studies; and studies comparing athletes with different body type requirements. A fourth section of the paper evaluates studies which have addressed the issue of gender differences in eating disorders among athletes. Suggestions are made for guidelines that will improve future research in this area.

[Selected indices of nutritional status and food habits among young ballet dancers]

The work has been aimed at assessment of nutritional status on the base of some selected anthropometric factors and at evaluation of food habits among schoolchildren of the ballet dance school at Gdańsk. The 58 boys and girls were examined. The height, body mass and body fat were measured, and the Body Mass Index values calculated. The results were compared to those obtained among children at Poznań and Kielce. The survey of food habits was made with the especially prepared questionnaire. The substantial deficiency of body fat and relatively low body mass were observed. The BMI value below 18 was found for 35% of subjects, and between 20 and 25 only for 23% of subjects. The wrong food habits were found, especially low number of meals and their irregular consumption.

Sport and active recreation injuries in Australia: evidence from emergency department presentations

OBJECTIVE

Despite the rise in specialist clinical services for the management of sports and active recreation injury, many patients attend hospital emergency departments for treatment. The purpose of this study was to describe sports injury cases presented to selected hospital emergency departments around Australia for the period 1989-1993.

METHODS

Routinely collected emergency department injury presentation data from the Australian National Injury Surveillance Unit were examined. Data on 98,040 sports and active recreation emergency department presentations were analysed. Sports and active recreation activities were ranked according to frequency of presentation. Relative proportions of injury type and body region injured were determined. Data are presented separately for children (<15 years of age) and adults (>15 years of age).

RESULTS

Among the 10 activities that most commonly led to a sports or active recreation injury presentation for all ages were cycling, Australian football, basketball, soccer, cricket, netball, and rugby. For children, injuries were also commonly associated with roller skating/blading, skateboarding, and trampolining. Hockey, martial arts, and dancing injuries were frequent in adults. Most sporting injuries occurred during organised competition or practice whereas the active recreation injuries occurred in a variety of settings. Fractures, strains, and sprains, particularly to the lower and upper extremities, were common types of injury.

CONCLUSION

The rich, but nevertheless limited, information available about sports and active recreation injuries from data collected in emergency departments indicates that these activities are a common context for injury at the community level in Australia.

Profile of dance injuries in a Broadway show: a discussion of issues in dance medicine epidemiology

A description of dance injuries in a Broadway show using ballet technique is reported for the first time. Presentation of this material is used as a vehicle to discuss issues in dance epidemiology and etiology. As interest and research in dance medicine increases, standardization of reporting methods and definitions becomes critical in discussions of epidemiology and etiology. Borrowing from sports medicine classifications, which define sports injury as "time lost from play," we suggest dance injury be defined as "time lost from performing". The overall injury rate was 40.0%, which was low compared with those of classical ballet companies. The majority of injuries involved the foot and ankle, similar to previous reports of classical ballet companies. Reasons for the low injury rates and types of injuries are discussed. The information necessary to facilitate comparison of data with other studies is outlined. We hope this article will contribute to further discussion regarding adoption of universal language and details necessary for reporting injury. Additional areas of research are suggested.

A survey of injuries among Broadway performers

To obtain more information about injuries of Broadway performers, 313 performers appearing in 23 Broadway companies were surveyed. The percentage of performers injured was 55.5%, with a mean of 1.08 injuries performer. Lower extremity injuries were the most common. Sixty-two percent of performers believed that their injuries were preventable. As this study reports factors that significantly increase the risk of injury for dancers and actors, it may help to heighten concern with reducing the incidence of injuries to professional performers, theatrical students, and nonprofessionals worldwide.