dance physio

[physiobob]

To be honest if her feet are that much of an issue that she requires orthotics then it does look a bit hopeless. Perhaps you might keep her in dance but in another form where she could wear some innersoles, e.g. in Jazz or Tap shoes?

It is important during her growth phases not to create movement patterns on the foot that will 'solidify' with continued ossification of the bones within the foot complex.

I am not up on the actual footwear for highland dancing however so can't say whether there is any other smaller/narrower othotic device that could be made to assist.

Best advice is to switch styles for a while and see how she goes. She might love tap

[ankado]

Thanks for your thoughts. Highland dance pumps are soft and flexible. In soles would only hinder as the whole dance is up on halfpoint. Her podiatrist says she can not really overpronate whilst dancing but landing leaps might be a problem area.We are taking a rest from all dance for a couple of months but would still appreciate advice on the use of pilates in a 12 year old. After all her injury problems she has lost strength and flexibility which can not help in the prevention of further injury. If this does not work out we could try tap. Unfortunately once a Highland dancer always a Highland dancer!