Epidemiology

Pathology

Literature

Library science

Dance

Physical therapy

Psychology

Ballet

Chemistry

Alternative medicine

CLARITY

Back injury

Low back pain

Citation

Computer science

Biochemistry

Medicine

Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy

Background Dance is a physical pursuit that involves loading the spine through repetitive dynamic movements and lifting tasks. As such, low back pain (LBP) and low back injury (LBI) have been identified as common health problems in contemporary and classical ballet dancers. However, clarity regarding the experience of LBP and LBI in dance is lacking. Objectives To systematically review and synthesize the epidemiology of LBP and LBI in dance populations. Methods A comprehensive search of 6 electronic databases, back catalogs of dance science–specific journals, and reference lists of relevant articles and a forward citation search were performed. Results Fifty full-text articles were included in the final systematic review. There was considerable methodological heterogeneity among the included studies. The median (range) point, yearly, and lifetime prevalence of LBP was 27% (17%–39%), 73% (41%–82%), and 50% (17%–88%), respectively. The lower back contributed to 11% (4%–22%) of time loss and 11% (5%–23%) of medical-attention injuries. Conclusion Dancers are vulnerable to LBP and LBI. The use of definitions that are sensitive to the complexity of LBP and LBI would facilitate improved understanding of the problem within dance, inform health care strategies, and allow for monitoring LBP-specific intervention outcomes. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2019;49(4):239–252. Epub 18 Jan 2019. doi:10.2519/jospt.2019.8609

The Epidemiology of Low Back Pain and Injury in Dance: A Systematic Review