Healing for Dancers
Always looking for new ways to support the performing arts community, The Actors Fund on May 21st, in New York City, sponsored Healing for Dancers, a seminar which played to a standing room only crowd. Some came in orthopedic boots and on crutches but all came with questions and to learn more about new innovations in diagnostic techniques, physical therapy, health insurance and support services.
The panel of health care providers was moderated by dancer, singer and actress Bebe Neuwirth, appearing once again on Broadway in "Chicago" after undergoing hip replacement surgery. Chief among the speakers was Dr. Donald J. Rose, Attending Orthopedic Surgeon and Director of the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries at NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases. Also on the panel were Sandra Foschi, a physical therapist and nutritionist; Dr. Daniel White, Chiropractor; and MariJeanne Liederbach, Director of Research & Education for the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries. Central to the discussion was the emotional impact of injuries on dancers.
Dr. Rose stated that "dancers had unique injuries from other athletic careers." MariJeanne Liederbach further addressed the issue saying they are trying to make training safer and work towards injury prevention at the Harkness Center. Dr. White said that "dancers have a higher level of pain tolerance than non dancers and that they are dealing with a basis of function rather than pain level." Sandra Foschi, said that "dancers should seek an earlier diagnosis for their injuries to receive treatment and avoid making the situation worse if left untreated." She also offered suggestions on diet and how to sustain ones energy levels on days when class, rehearsals and performances make it difficult to eat nutritionally balanced meals at good intervals during the day.
Many questions were asked about health insurance and workmen's compensation; about new innovations in hip and knee replacement surgeries and how to deal with the stress of not being able to attend class, and perform. The bottom line is a dancer's identity is so connected to their career that a dancer does not feel like a dancer if they are not dancing.
In further support of dancers with injuries, The Actors Fund is planning to set up appointments for personal confidential psychological counseling. Members of theatrical unions are eligible for benefits available through The Actors Fund such as health services, social services and benefits for uninsured dances. They also offer guidance and training for sideline careers. For further information and questions contact The Actors Fund at www.actorsfund.org. For injury diagnosis and physical therapy services contact Harkness Center for Dance Injuries on the web at www.danceinjury.com or phone 212/598-6022. Daniel White's contact number is 212/877-5726.