I stopped watching this season of DWTS after the first night but read about the injury to Misty May-Treanor which I guess occurred this week.

According to the article, she needs surgery on her Achilles tendon and will be out of commission for almost a year.

Anyone who takes dancing seriously (and not just ballroom folks) lives in constant fear of injuries, especially those involving the legs. For some dancers, damage to the Achilles can mean the end of their careers.

I think that this unfortunate occurrence provides a good incentive to discuss proper leg and foot care as they relate to dancing.

Obviously, stretching is very important. However, I know of many dancers - (especially newcomers - who either do not stretch at all or do so iinadequately or improperly.

I try to spend at least five minutes stretching before each session. My partner and I will then dance at about half to three-quarter speed for a few minutes until we feel confortable.

I use two stretches that I was taught long ago. One involves squatting one one knee with the other leg extended straight to the side and resting on the heel. I lower slowly into this position and maintain it for as long as I can, usually between thirty and forty seconds. I then rise from it just as slowly, shift weight, and repeat the stretch for the other leg.

The other stretch is what I've heard described as the "dancer's stretch." It involves squatting gently with both feet together or at least parallel and hands grasping the ankles. I then slowly straighten my legs while (trying to) maintain my hold on the ankles. I repeat these for at least three minutes.

While I've had occasional issues with my Achilles and a couple of minor tears (if there is such a thing), I've managed to keep my legs in fairly good shape over the years.

I'd like to learn how others on this site prepare themselves for their sessions. I'd also like to know if anyone has recovered from a leg injury and what was done to help it heal.

jj

PS Yes, I know that dancers are susceptible to injuries to body parts other than legs. I've also had some temporary issues with my shoulders. Some folks whom I know have had back problems as well.