11/12/2025
🦶Sprains are among the most common injuries in dancers and performing artists, especially in the foot and ankle. They often result from poor landing mechanics, joint instability, limited strength or neuromuscular control, ill-fitting footwear, and physical or mental fatigue. All of these can affect the body’s ability to absorb impact and maintain alignment during movement. 🎭
For inversion sprains (when the foot rolls inward), the most evidence-based recovery method is the PEACE & LOVE protocol, as this approach can help promote healing, while minimising long-term complications. ❤️🩹
PEACE (first 72 hours): Protection, Elevation, Avoid anti-inflammatories, Compression & Education
LOVE (after day 4): Load management, Optimism, Vascularization (gentle movement) & Exercise 💪
Taping can help during early weight-bearing stages, by providing mechanical support and sensory feedback. For ankles with more instability, rigid taping techniques may be required to prevent further injury.
Rehabilitation should include exercises that target balance and proprioception, as well as strengthening the muscles around the foot, ankle, knee, and hip, to help restore performance readiness and reduce the likelihood of re-injury. 🔃
Finally, it’s crucial to consult a physiotherapist, as some injuries, such as high ankle sprains (syndesmotic sprains) or subtle fractures, may not be immediately obvious and often require expert assessment and longer recovery periods.
👉For more information about our Dance & Performing Arts Medicine Service, visit our website: https://hubs.ly/Q03Xt2M-0