What You'll Learn
- Understanding why toe numbness is a common and normal sensation for beginning pointe students.
- How the stiffness of new pointe shoes contributes to temporary physical discomfort.
- The importance of checking in with your body to differentiate between normal pressure and potential injury.
- How the sensation of dancing en pointe changes as your shoes break in and your body adapts.
About This Video
Stepping into your first pair of pointe shoes is a monumental milestone in a dancer's journey. However, the physical reality of dancing en pointe can often bring unexpected sensations. " This specialized insight from a first pointe class addresses exactly that, providing reassurance and practical guidance for those new to the world of hard shoes and satin ribbons.
When you first begin your pointe work, your feet are subjected to a completely new type of pressure. Unlike dancing in flat slippers where your weight is distributed across the ball of the foot, dancing en pointe focuses that weight onto the tips of the toes. This compression can naturally lead to a temporary loss of sensation or a numb feeling.
This is particularly prevalent when shoes are brand new. A fresh pair of pointe shoes is quite rigid; the box and shank have not yet been softened by the heat and moisture of your feet or the repetitive motion of movements like plié and relevé. As you continue your training, two things happen.
First, the shoes begin to break in, becoming more flexible and conforming to the unique shape of your foot. As the shoe softens, it allows for better circulation and a more natural movement of the foot inside the box. Second, your body begins to adapt.
What initially felt like alarming numbness eventually becomes a familiar sensation that you associate with the specialized work of dancing on your toes. It is vital, however, to remain mindful of your body’s signals. While some numbness is expected, you must learn to distinguish it from sharp pain or injury.
Checking in with yourself during class is a skill every dancer must develop. At Broche Ballet, we encourage students to listen to their feet. If a sensation feels wrong or causes lasting discomfort after you take the shoes off, it may indicate a need for a professional refitting to address issues like bunions or alignment.
Understanding these normal sensations makes the journey much more rewarding.
