What You'll Learn
- Identify where your feet fall on the spectrum from pes cavus (high arch) to pes planus (flat foot).
- Perform diagnostic tests, including footwear wear pattern analysis and weight-bearing mobility checks.
- Recognize specific injury risks like fifth metatarsal stress fractures and posterior tibialis tendonitis.
- Master metatarsal mobilization and joint play techniques to improve flexibility in the midfoot.
- Apply manual therapy using therapy balls and kneeling stretches to manage plantar fascia tension.
About This Video
Understanding your unique foot anatomy is a cornerstone of safe and successful ballet training. In this specialized 52-minute class from Broche Ballet, Dr. , provides an in-depth exploration of foot and arch types specifically tailored for dancers preparing for pointe work.
Whether you have high arches, known as pes cavus, or flatter feet, known as pes planus, knowing where you fall on the structural spectrum is essential for customizing your conditioning routine and selecting the right shoes. Dr. Nina guides you through practical diagnostic tools that you can use at home to gain better self-awareness.
You will learn how to analyze the wear patterns on your everyday footwear and perform weight-bearing tests to determine how your arches behave under pressure. This knowledge is not just academic; it is vital for injury prevention. Dancers with rigid, high arches (supinators) are often more prone to fifth metatarsal stress fractures due to how they distribute weight, while those with more mobile, flat feet (pronators) might struggle with posterior tibialis tendonitis or knee alignment issues during a deep plié or a high relevé.
The session goes beyond simple identification, offering a suite of manual therapy techniques and targeted exercises. You will learn how to improve joint play and midfoot mobility through metatarsal mobilization—a technique particularly crucial for those with stiffer feet who struggle to find a clean line en pointe. Dr.
Nina also demonstrates how to use therapy balls and kneeling plantar fascia stretches to release tension, manage the Achilles tendon's load, and improve overall ankle health. By the end of this masterclass, you will have a clear map of your foot's structural needs and a better understanding of how to maintain a neutral position. This anatomical approach ensures that your transition to dancing en pointe is guided by science, strength, and self-awareness.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that every dancer’s journey is unique, and understanding your foundation is the first step toward achieving your goals with grace and longevity. Join us to refine your technique and empower your ballet practice through specialized anatomical knowledge.
