Dr. Katie van den Heuvel, PT, Performing Arts Medicine

10/05/2025

Last night, a chapter officially closed on the Scarlet Lady. Duel Reality had its final performance on this ship.

For over 11 incredible months total, across two ship contracts and five different casts, this show has been my clinic, my classroom, and my family. Working with the extraordinary performers of Duel Reality taught me more than anything else could about the intricacies of circus performing arts medicine.

I became intimately familiar with the demands of banquine, hooping and hoop diving, teeterboard, aerial chains, juggling, diablo, and hand-to-hand, treating everything from sprained thumbs, joint dislocations, and concussions, to contusions and pole burns.

But my job was so much more than tape and treatment. It was sharing holiday meals, celebrating birthdays, and watching every single show from the front row—noting hard impacts, missed tricks, and altered facial expressions. I’ve been there to successfully rehabilitate performers to finish their contracts, and to support those who needed to disembark for recovery. I’ve gone to bat for our casts with ship medical and security to make sure they were supported and protected.

After every show where there were no injuries, I gave my report: “Cast is happy and healthy.”

Last night, I gave that report one final, proud time before hanging up my coms. Thank you, Duel Reality. I will never forget what I learned from you.

09/21/2025

09/10/2025

Pain is a lot more complex than you may think! It’s not a direct measure of tissue damage, but rather an output from your brain, designed as a protective alarm system.

That alarm can be influenced by your biology, your thoughts, your emotions, and even your environment (including the people and places).

So, what can you do about it? By learning more about pain science (like reading this post 😆), by managing your stress through options like meditation and connecting with your support group, and by doing things you enjoy, you can help calm your body’s alarm system.

To understand this game-changing concept in a fun, entertaining way, check out resources like Lorimer Moseley‘s TEDx talk on “Why Things Hurt” and the Brainman animated video on “Understanding Pain in less than five minutes”

08/09/2025

To everyone working to heal and recover from an injury, this is for you.

Healing is not a straight line!

The recovery journey is a winding road, not a steady, upward climb. Setbacks and plateaus are a completely normal part of the process.

Every recovery path has its turns. Celebrate every small victory along the way, and remember that even during the challenging moments, you’re building the resilience needed for the long haul.

Stay patient with yourself, and trust the process. You’ve got this.

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07/24/2025

Ahoy everyone! It’s been a bit, and I’m so excited to jump back in and share with you all. For those new here, I’m , and I’m a Doctor of Physical Therapy!

My clinic? Often at sea! 🌊 I work with a company that contracts with Virgin Voyages, bringing care to incredible talent and crew members as they sail the world. I specialize in Performing Arts Medicine, working with everyone from singers, dancers, and actors to circus artists, musicians, roadies, and technicians – basically, anyone who makes magic happen both onstage and backstage!

When I’m not helping performers stay in tip-top shape, you can usually find me exploring new cities on foot, getting happily lost in a foreign grocery store, or diving into a great sci-fi or fantasy book. I’m a huge fan of music, love visiting historic spots, and enjoy hiking in nature. My life’s a fun mix of healing and adventuring!

I can’t wait to share more about my adventures at sea and my passion for performing arts health!

I’m heading to the British Isles and Iceland for the very first time, and I’m beyond excited!

If you’ve been, what are some of your absolute favorite places, hidden gems, or must-see spots to look out for in the ports there? Share your best recommendations below!

07/03/2025

On this Fourth of July, it’s hard to ignore the heavy reality many are facing, especially with the imminent changes to healthcare access. As a physical therapist, I’ve seen the ripple effect of these policies on individuals and communities. Our nation’s strength lies in its people, and their well-being should be our highest priority. Let this day be a call to action and a moment of reflection on what ‘freedom’ truly means when basic needs like health are at risk. What kind of future are we truly building? ”

03/31/2025

FABULOUS show! What a treat to get to see such a stellar production. Made me want to can can dance in the aisles! 😄

03/25/2025

It was amazing getting to hear race through a story of her life and the “touchstone” songs of her life and career. I noticed a lot of the West Palm Beach audience resonated with stories of her early years, likely because so many New Yorkers are snowbirds and retirees around here.

Thank you to both Ms. Lupone and the Kravis center for presenting “A Life In Notes!”

03/09/2025

Excited to see the Winter Mix from today!

03/08/2025

Equal rights. Equal opportunities. Equal power.

02/13/2025

That feeling when you’re trying to chill with some classical music, but then Bartok hits you with that extra stress.

Just me?

01/07/2025

Air fried tofu with broccoli and farro for lunch!