Dance medicine is a multi-disciplinary study dedicated to treating musculoskeletal injuries and addressing other dance-related health needs, including mental well-being, of dancer patients. Dancers, often regarded as exceptional athletes, are equally susceptible to severe injuries, much like those encountered in sports. In the late 20th century, the proliferation of medical subspecialties led to the integration of sports medicine and performing arts medicine. Given dance's unique position at the intersection of arts and sports, it was inevitable that this field would eventually enter the mainstream. One pioneering institution that played a crucial role in this transformation was the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, with one individual standing out as a driving force behind this revolution – Professor Emma Redding. Let's see what she had to say:
1. To respect everyone’s viewpoint - be patient with those who are skeptical about the value of dance science.
As an athlete turned dancer myself, I've often contemplated the intriguing overlaps between sports and performing arts, not merely on a physical level, but also within the industry as a whole. Dancing demands an athletic intensity equal to that of sports, yet when injuries occur, it receives notably less attention and care. In the early 1970s, dancers and dance educators observed the advantages that athletes derived from sports medicine, a field primarily led by orthopaedic surgeons, and sought their medical advice. These orthopedic surgeons soon recognized significant similarities between dancers and athletes. While some injuries were unique to dancers due to the aesthetic demands of their art, this alone did not fully explain the emergence of dance medicine as a distinct entity. The crucial distinction emerged when healthcare providers realized that dancers primarily identified themselves as artists, not athletes, despite their needs aligning more closely with athletes than with musicians and vocalists. This left them uncategorized in both sports medicine and performing arts medicine. As a result, dance medicine, unlike any other medical specialty, emerged as a unique subspecialty driven by the patients themselves, rather than the medical profession.
During my time at my alma mater, the HKAPA, I was fortunate to be part of one of the most advanced dance science programs in Asia and even the world. The program boasted top-notch facilities, highly qualified lecturers, and abundant research opportunities, culminating in the school hosting the exhilarating 2017 IADMS conference. This event brought together the finest dance science figures from around the globe for a few immersive days of research, networking, and eye-opening presentations. However, I couldn't help but notice the surprisingly low attendance in the halls, and many of my peers seemed unaware of the conference altogether. This raised questions about the challenges that lie ahead. Do dancers still overlook the importance of specialized knowledge to better care for their bodies? Or perhaps lecturers feel the need for a more gradual assimilation of dance science into the curriculum?
Either way, dance science is still relatively new, and before it gains widespread awareness within the dance community, it may need to catch up with the rich history of dance itself. As those already embracing dance science, the best approach is to respect everyone's perspective and be patient with those who may be skeptical about its value. Eventually, as understanding grows, more individuals will undoubtedly become an integral part of this exciting field.
2. To appreciate that there are many more questions than answers - our work is making small but important attempts to tackle those questions (Rome wasn’t built in a day).
Despite her profound expertise in dance science, Emma remains actively involved in lecturing and studio practices, encompassing areas such as dance technique, improvisation, and exercise physiology. Her dedication extends to leadership and pedagogical work, where she has supervised over 90 master's project dissertations and several PhD students. Additionally, she boasts an impressive publication record, with over 50 papers featured in peer-reviewed academic journals and 5 book chapters. However, for those not already immersed in the world of dance science, navigating through the vast online portals containing such material can be overwhelming. While dance science literature abounds, it may not always be easily accessible to the uninitiated.
In today’s age, it's entirely reasonable to question the significance of dance science. Beyond anatomy enthusiasts, many dancers may not have the inclination or capacity to delve into extensive studies of muscle origins, insertions, or the nuances of spine pain. With numerous questions and complexities surrounding the human body's interplay with dance, it can be challenging for dancers to prioritize the pursuit of in-depth physiological knowledge amidst their quest to become well-rounded dance professionals. However, it is essential to clarify that this does not justify ignorance about their bodies. It simply highlights the inherent challenges dancers face in balancing their varied priorities. Emma Redding, thankfully, was among the first to grasp this reality.
Thanks to Emma's visionary approach, dance science has evolved into a field that acknowledges the abundance of questions that remain unanswered. Her work has revolved around making small but crucial strides in addressing these questions. After all, as the saying goes, Rome wasn't built in a day, and understanding the intricacies of dance physiology and applying that knowledge is an ongoing process. Through her contributions, Emma has instilled an appreciation for the continuous journey of learning in dance science, recognizing that there is always more to explore and uncover.
3. To advocate that research is not complete unless it is published/shared - and the most rewarding part of dance science research is witnessing its application to practice
Research, a term with origins dating back to the 1570s, originally referred to the "act of searching closely" for a specific person or thing, stemming from the French word 'recherche' (1530s, Modern French recherche), meaning "seek out, search closely." In modern times, research is commonly understood as "diligent scientific inquiry and investigation directed to the discovery of some fact," perhaps supported by the metaphorical notion that research is a cognitive or intellectual "exploration," not a straightforward journey to uncover a mysterious target. Now, let's delve into the "why" behind research.
At the heart of dance science lies its research pedigree and its capacity to unravel the unknown, bridge gaps in knowledge, and enhance the effectiveness of healthcare professionals. In-depth research empowers dancers to cultivate critical thinking, resourcefulness, and communication skills—valuable assets highly sought after in the modern workforce. Moreover, when the findings are applied to dancers, it underscores the immense benefits of such a specialized craft in a world that often lacks subject experts. However, it is crucial to discern that just because an article starts with the headline "New research suggests," it doesn't guarantee rigorous research published in reputable peer-reviewed journals, which should be the ultimate goal for aspiring academic researchers. The prevalence of readers loosely believing in reports of "new research" is concerning, particularly for those relying on such rigor for their livelihood. Dance science cannot afford misinformation or loosely founded theories concerning the dancer's body.
As a dancer and self-professed geek, I felt doubly proud when my co-presented paper was included in the HKAPA Journal as part of a newly published collection of practice-as-research projects. Though it may not have been part of the most prestigious archive, the arduous work required to complete such an endeavor should not be underestimated. Researchers can surely attest to this. Above all, we must recognize the paramount importance of research and advocate that it is only complete when published or shared. The most rewarding aspect of dance science research lies in witnessing its practical application.
Check out the full episode here
06.05.2024
