Guidelines for Returning to Dance Following Concussion: Adaptations From Sport Concussion Literature

Abstract

Sport concussion receives substantial attention as a public health concern. Conversely, performing artists, including dancers, sustain concussions, but these aesthetic athletes do not receive the same level of consideration nor care for this injury as that offered to traditional athletes. The concussion literature pertaining to dance is sparse, and, to our knowledge, no recommendations exist for the crucial aspect of care related to returning to dance following a concussion. The purpose of this article is to assimilate the current knowledge about post-concussion return to activity management in sport—the closest analog of the physical demands required in dance—as a means to delineate a framework for returning to dance following a concussion. Specific guidance is provided based on a review of evidence-based practice so clinicians can ensure that dancers return safely to both their dance activity and any academic work they are required to undertake. Concussion in dance is not an infrequent occurrence and dancers and healthcare practitioners alike will benefit from dance-specific guidance for returning to dance post-concussion. Overall, the principles that form the foundation for return-to-sport decisions are remarkably robust for application to dance.