Dance Med Spotlight

In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, we’re diving into practical, actionable strategies to enhance performance, resilience, and overall dancer health with Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS. Whether you’re a dancer, parent, teacher, or studio owner, this conversation offers valuable insight on how to build strength, prevent injury, and support longevity in dance. Our guest, Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS, shares her insights as a former dancer turned physical therapist. With nearly 20 years of experience and a passion for foot care, she brings both expertise and empathy to the table. Strength Training That Supports the Demands of Dance Strength training is essential for dancers. It not only improves performance but also reduces injury risk by supporting joints during high-impact movement. Sarah explains how dancers can build strength in a way that complements their training. Plus, she offers simple, effective exercises that are easy to add to any routine. Building Resilience Through Smart Lifestyle Choices Success in dance doesn’t come from training alone. In fact, resilience often depends on how dancers manage their lives outside of class. Sarah discusses the importance of balancing dance with other activities, including rest, school, and social life. This balance is key to avoiding burnout and staying mentally healthy. Why Foot Health Should Never Be Overlooked Foot care is often an afterthought—but it shouldn’t be. Sarah dives into why dancers need to prioritize foot health and how doing so can impact overall performance. She shares tips for maintaining strong, pain-free feet and explains why sensory input from the feet plays a critical role in movement and stability. Finding the Right Balance in Training Schedules Many dancers are over-scheduled. While dedication is important, too much training without enough rest can lead to fatigue and injury. In this episode, you’ll hear how to create a more balanced schedule—one that includes dance, cross-training, and recovery. This approach can help dancers make consistent progress without sacrificing their well-being. Creating a Supportive Studio Culture For studio owners and teachers, Sarah offers advice on how to build a positive studio environment. A strong culture supports not just technique, but the whole dancer. When dancers feel supported, they’re more likely to stay healthy, motivated, and engaged. Meet the Guest: Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS Sarah’s journey from Vaganova ballet dancer to orthopedic clinical specialist shapes her unique approach. Growing up without access to dance-specific care, she became determined to help the next generation. Today, she specializes in foot and ankle care and works with dancers of all ages. “Feet are my jam,” Sarah says. “They’re misunderstood in modern medicine, but they’re key to how we move and feel.” Connect with Sarah restore-reform-pt.com @restore.reform.pt on Instagram and Facebook YouTube: Restore Reform PT This episode is packed with takeaways to help dancers move better, feel better, and dance stronger—for the long haul. Tune in and join the movement toward a more sustainable and empowered dance community. Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Sarah Tyndall – Restore Reform PT appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS chats with Dr. Linda Bluestein—a former ballet dancer and physician. Dr. Bluestein specializes in hypermobility and connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS). She brings a unique blend of dance experience and medical insight to her work. Her passion for education led her to create Hypermobility MD and host the Bendy Bodies podcast. Through these platforms, she helps others better understand the challenges and possibilities of being “bendy.” Whether you’re a dancer, educator, healthcare provider, or parent, this episode offers practical takeaways and expert advice. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of hypermobility and how to better support those affected by it. Key Topics Covered Hypermobility Diagnosis and TreatmentAccurate diagnosis is essential. Dr. Bluestein explains the signs of hypermobility and why each treatment plan must be individualized. Myths & MisunderstandingsMany people assume hypermobility is just extra flexibility. However, Dr. Bluestein reveals how much more there is to know. Impacts on DancersDancers with hypermobility often face unique physical and emotional challenges. With the right care, though, they can thrive. Building a Supportive Care TeamIt’s important to be proactive. We talk about how to find providers who understand hypermobility and how to advocate for proper care. Resources for Learning and LivingDr. Bluestein shares tools to stay informed and connected, including her Substack newsletter and the Bendy Bodies podcast. Connect with Dr. Bluestein Hypermobility MD Website Bendy Bodies Podcast Bendy Bulletin on Substack Bendy Bodies on YouTube Socials:@HypermobilityMD on IG, FB, LinkedIn, X, TikTok@Bendy_Bodies on IG Final Thoughts Joint hypermobility can be both a strength and a challenge for dancers. With the right support and understanding, individuals with connective tissue disorders can move and live more confidently. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to better understand the complexities of hypermobility in the dance world. Catch the full episode on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a friend or colleague who works with dancers! Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Linda Bluestein – Hypermobility MD appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, host Dr. Alyssa Arms sits down with Kendall Baab, a dance science educator, certified strength and conditioning specialist, and the founder of BodyKinect—an online platform dedicated to dancer-focused strength training and education. Kendall is also a lecturer at Loyola Marymount University’s Dance Department, where she merges scientific principles with the artistry of dance. This conversation explores how dance science helps dancers, teachers, and parents build healthier and longer-lasting dance careers. Kendall Baab shares her journey into the field and explains why strength and conditioning matter for dancers of all levels. Whether you run a studio, teach dance, perform, or support a dancer, this episode gives you real-world ideas to improve performance, reduce injury risk, and build a stronger foundation. What We Cover in This Episode Kendall’s Journey into Dance ScienceKendall talks about how her background in dance led her to explore science. She found a way to connect her love of movement with teaching and training. This path led her to create BodyKinect. Dance Science in the Studio and BeyondNext, we look at how strength training and body awareness can be part of regular classes. Kendall explains how these tools help dancers grow safely and effectively. Rethinking Injury PreventionKendall breaks down why cross-training and strength work are key to keeping dancers healthy. This is especially helpful for young dancers training at high levels. Challenges for EducatorsWe also talk about the real limits many teachers face—like short class times or busy schedules. Kendall shares easy ways to bring science-based ideas into class without needing big changes. Building Sustainable CareersFinally, we look at how dancers and teachers can plan for the long run. Kendall offers advice for managing burnout and staying healthy through smart scheduling and rest. Connect with Kendall Instagram/TikTok: @trainwithkendallYouTube: @trainwithkendallWebsite: https://bodykinect.org Why You’ll Like This Episode If you’re curious about how science can support dance, this episode is a great place to start. Kendall brings a mix of knowledge and practical tools that you can use right away—no matter your role in the dance world. Don’t forget to subscribe to Dance Med Spotlight on your favorite podcast app. If you liked the episode, leave a review to help others find the show. Have an idea for a guest or topic? Reach out and let us know—we’d love to hear from you! Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Kendall Baab – Train with Kendall appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

Join our host, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS, with today’s guest, Dr. Matthew Wyon, PhD. Our Guest: Matthew Wyon In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, host Alyssa Arms sits down with Dr. Matthew Wyon, a leading expert in dance medicine and science. With decades of experience at the forefront of research, Dr. Wyon shares valuable insights into the physiological demands of dance, the importance of energy balance, and evidence-based training strategies that support both performance and longevity. Whether you’re a dancer, educator, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers essential takeaways for fostering healthier, stronger dancers. Key Topics & Highlights: Physiological Demands on Dancers – Understanding the physical stresses dancers face and how to manage them effectively Relative Energy Deficiency in Dance – Exploring the impact of energy balance on performance and long-term health Training Smarter, Not Harder – Evidence-based methods to optimize rest, recovery, and injury risk reduction Early Specialization vs. Movement Diversity – How varied movement patterns influence dancer development and injury rates Professional Development in Dance Medicine & Science – Opportunities for educators and health professionals to expand their expertise Connect: Follow Dr. Matthew Wyon: @mattwyon Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on dancer health and performance! Subscribe now to stay up to date with the latest episodes, where we explore the fascinating world of dance medicine, nurture curiosity, and serve the dance community. Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeLJdzxWzJBUn-AAXeumwZQ Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Matthew Wyon – The Science of Dance Performance appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

Join our host, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS, with today’s guest, Courtney Adair, LPCC. Our Guest: Courtney Adair In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, we welcome back Courtney Adair, a professional West Coast Swing dancer, judge, and instructor with over 15 years of experience. Courtney joins us to dive deep into the concept of trauma-informed dance instruction, exploring its significance and how it can be effectively applied in various teaching settings. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how trauma can affect individuals in dance and discover practical ways instructors can create supportive, empowering environments. Topics & Highlights: Understanding Trauma-Informed Instruction: Courtney introduces the concept of trauma-informed instruction and its growing relevance in dance education. Power Dynamics in Dance: We discuss the inherent power dynamics present in dance instruction and their potential impact on students. Creating Safe Spaces: Courtney shares strategies for fostering a safe, supportive environment, emphasizing the importance of consent and invitational language. Empowerment and Agency: We explore the value of empowering students and promoting agency in their learning processes. Practical Applications: Courtney offers tips for applying trauma-informed principles in various teaching contexts, whether working with individuals, pairs, or groups. This insightful conversation with Courtney sheds light on the vital intersection of trauma awareness and dance instruction. By embracing trauma-informed practices, instructors can enhance the learning experience, ensuring that all dancers feel valued, safe, and empowered. The insights shared in this episode challenge traditional teaching methods and encourage a more compassionate, thoughtful approach to dance education. As we continue to explore these themes, it becomes clear that fostering supportive environments is essential for the growth and well-being of every dancer, ultimately enriching the entire dance community. Connect: To learn more about Courtney Adair and her work, connect with her on online: Instagram Website Don’t miss this in-depth discussion on dancer health, safety, and wellness. Tune in to this episode for an eye-opening discussion that will transform the way you approach teaching and learning in dance! Subscribe now to stay up to date with the latest episodes, where we explore the fascinating world of dance medicine, nurture curiosity, and serve the dance community. Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeLJdzxWzJBUn-AAXeumwZQ Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Courtney Adair – Trauma-Informed Dance Instruction appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

Join our host, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS, with today’s guest, Dr. Sheyi Ojofeitimi, PT, DPT, OCS! Our Guest: Sheyi Ojofeitimi Dr. Ojofeitimi is the Director of Therapy Services at the prestigious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and co-founder of the Dance Ready Project, an initiative designed to support dancers as they safely return to practice after breaks or injuries. With a passion for dancer health and safety, Dr. Ojofeitimi shares her extensive experience and insights on improving dancer wellness, both physically and mentally. Episode Highlights: 1. Dr. Ojofeitimi’s Journey: Dr. Ojofeitimi shares her path to becoming a leader in dance medicine, driven by her commitment to supporting dancers’ health and wellness.2. The Importance of Dancer Wellness: She emphasizes the need for dancers to prioritize both their physical and mental health, recognizing themselves as athletes.3. The Dance Ready Project: Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses the Dance Ready Project, which offers resources and screening methods to help dancers safely return to practice after breaks or injuries.4. In-House Therapy at Alvin Ailey: She explains the benefits of having a dedicated therapy team within a dance organization to address injuries and provide ongoing support.5. Concussion Protocols and Research: Dr. Ojofeitimi shares her research on concussion management in dancers, highlighting the importance of proper protocols for safe recovery. The conversation with Dr. Sheyi Ojofeitimi sheds light on the vital intersection of dance and medicine. As dancers push the boundaries of their craft, it’s crucial that their health and safety are at the forefront of the conversation. Whether you’re a dancer, dance teacher, or someone working in the field of dance medicine, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical strategies to improve dancer wellness and reduce injury risk. Connect: To learn more about Sheyi Ojofeitimi and her work, connect with her on online: Instagram Don’t miss this in-depth discussion on dancer health, safety, and wellness. Dr. Ojofeitimi’s expertise will leave you with actionable insights to better support dancers and elevate the overall health of the dance community. Tune in today! Subscribe now to stay up to date with the latest episodes, where we explore the fascinating world of dance medicine, nurture curiosity, and serve the dance community. Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeLJdzxWzJBUn-AAXeumwZQ Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Sheyi Ojofeitimi – Alvin Ailey & Dance Ready Project appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.

Join our host, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS, with today’s guest, Monika Saigal, MS, RD, CEDS-C, CDN! Our Guest: Monika Saigal In this episode, we sit down with Monika Saigal, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and former professional dancer who is transforming the way we approach dancer health and wellness. Based in NYC but working with clients across the U.S., Monika brings her expertise in nutrition counseling, education, and advocacy to dancers and dance organizations of all sizes. From private practice to consulting with world-renowned dance schools and companies, she’s dedicated to creating a healthier and safer dance culture. Monika also shares insights from her new book, Nourishing Dance: An Essential Guide on Nutrition, Body Image, and Eating Disorders, which expands on her work in dancer wellness. Episode Highlights: Fueling and under-fueling for dancers Disordered eating and eating disorders in the dance community The importance of language and messaging around food, nutrition, and body image in the dance environment The role of dance educators, healthcare providers, and others in supporting dancer health and wellness Strategies for promoting a healthy, balanced approach to dance and nutrition. Improving dancer health is vital for both individual well-being and the art form’s longevity. Everyone in the dance ecosystem, from educators to parents to health professionals, has a role to play in fostering a supportive environment that allows dancers to truly thrive. Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable tips for building a better future for dancers! Connect: To learn more about Monika Saigal and her work, connect with her on online: Instagram Facebook Websites Clinic site Book site Purchase Monika’s book, “Nourishing Dance: An Essential Guide on Nutrition, Body Image, and Eating Disorders“. Listen now to learn how dancers can care for their mental health and thrive both on and off the stage! Subscribe now to stay up to date with the latest episodes, where we explore the fascinating world of dance medicine, nurture curiosity, and serve the dance community. Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeLJdzxWzJBUn-AAXeumwZQ Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Monika Saigal – Nourishing Dance appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy.