Dr. Craig Westin is an orthopedic surgeon for the Chicago Center for Orthopedics at Weiss Memorial Hospital and medical director of Chicago’s Joffrey Ballet. He has worked extensively with dancers, skiiers, and is a team physician with the U.S. Figure Skating Team. Dr. Westin generously took time out of his busy schedule to talk with Dance Advantage about knee problems, proper alignment, pain, and injuries common to dancers.
Technique
Stretching For Front Splits
If you’re struggling with getting all the way down in those elusive front-splits, there are two areas of flexibility that you’ll want to pay special attention to: the hamstrings and the hip flexors. Spend some time working to increase your range of motion in each of these areas individually with the stretches in this article.
The Stem of Aplomb – Part Two: The Thoracic Spine
Of all the spinal sections, the thoracic vertebrae are least capable of movement, however it is exceedingly important to the movements of dance. Lauren of Art Intercepts teaches us about the thoracic spine, its function, and gives an exercise to stretch and strengthen this area of the back for movement and greater aplomb.
The Stem of Aplomb — Part One: The Cervical Spine
The way that a dancer carries his/her head, the length of the neck, and the position of the chin, are pivotal to the overall appearance of grace and poise so necessary in dance. Understand the cervical spine and how it functions to project self-confidence, and improve common mistakes in cambré and carriage of the head.
Dancesolutions 2011
Art Intercepts’ Lauren Warnecke is taking some of your dancesolutions head on this year. You’ve expressed a desire to improve your technique, avoid injury, and increase flexibility. Look for tips and solutions to help you achieve your goals. Here is a sneak peek and a chance to let Lauren know what you’d like to see covered.
Your Blueprint for Better Balancing
Tips and thoughts to improve your overall balancing of poses. We discuss alignment, supporting muscles, focus, energy, and all about growing a balance in ‘good soil’. You’ll also get a list of balance challenges to train your senses for better stability.
