Did you know that small misalignments in the body—like one hip sitting higher than the other—can be the root cause of performance plateaus and even future injuries? Whether it’s a “niggle” you’ve been ignoring or subtle restrictions in your range of motion (ROM), addressing these issues now can save you from bigger problems later.
Why Alignment Is Crucial
Proper alignment is more than standing straight; it’s about how your body moves and distributes load during dance or exercise. Even minor imbalances can:
Cause extra strain on certain muscles and joints.
Limit ROM, affecting technique and movement quality.
Lead to compensations elsewhere in the body, increasing the risk of overuse injuries.
For example, if one shoulder is higher than the other, it can affect arm lines in port de bras, place unnecessary strain on the neck, and even throw off your centre of balance.
The Domino Effect of Misalignment
Let’s break it down:
Niggles: These small discomforts are often warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to compensation patterns that place extra stress on muscles and joints.
ROM Restrictions: Limited ROM in areas like the hips or shoulders can prevent dancers from achieving their full potential in movements like grand battements or arabesques.
Asymmetry: Over time, uneven loading of joints or muscles can cause chronic tightness, pain, or even acute injuries.
Prevention Is Key
The good news? Misalignments can often be corrected through targeted therapy, strengthening, and mobility exercises. Here’s why preventative treatment is worth it:
Avoid Injuries Before They Happen: Addressing alignment issues reduces unnecessary strain on vulnerable areas like the hips, knees, and shoulders.
Unlock Your Full Potential: Improving alignment can enhance technique, strength, and flexibility, helping you achieve more in your training.
Feel Better in Daily Life: Alignment isn’t just about dancing—it affects your posture, energy levels, and overall comfort.
How I Can Help
Through personalised assessments and treatment plans, I work with dancers and athletes to identify alignment issues and correct them before they lead to injuries. Whether it’s:
Improving ROM in tight hips.
Strengthening muscles to correct a higher hip or shoulder.
Helping you address that persistent “niggle” that’s been holding you back.
Together, we can take a preventative approach to keep you moving at your best.
Call to Action
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re experiencing discomfort, noticing asymmetries, or feel like your body isn’t performing at its best, book a consultation today. Let’s keep you strong, balanced, and injury-free!