Dance Injury Management and Prevention, Pre- Pointe Assessments, and More!

Welcome to Bertram Physiotherapy, your go-to destination for comprehensive dance injury management and prevention. We offer a full range of services tailored specifically to dancers of all ages, including: 

• Pre- Pointe Assessments and Reports
• Postural Alignment for - Dance, Singing and Performers
• Strength and Conditioning programs
• Remedial Massage
• Dance Screenings
• Onsite Treatment and Strapping during local Dance Eisteddfods. 

Our team of experienced physiotherapists are dedicated to helping you achieve your dance goals while ensuring proper care for your body.

Pre-Pointe Assessment:

Are you ready to take your dance journey to the next level en pointe? 

At Bertram Physiotherapy our detailed Pre-Pointe Assessments are specifically designed to evaluate a dancers physical readiness for the demands of going en pointe.

Embarking on your pointe journey for the very first time is a pivotal moment in every young dancer's life, marking a significant milestone in their ballet training. This transition, however, should not be taken lightly. It is essential to seek a professional assessment from an experienced Physiotherapist prior to venturing en pointe, typically around the age of 12 years. This evaluative step is paramount in determining if a dancer has attained the necessary physical strength and technical capability to prevent potential injuries. It also ensures that they have developed the requisite balance and alignment to execute pointe work effectively and safely. The assessment serves as a safeguard, illuminating the readiness of the dancer and promoting a healthy and sustainable transition to pointe.

What to Expect:

• History Taking: During the assessment, our physiotherapist will take into account the dancer's history, previous injuries, current exercise regimes, dance training, questions or concerns and goals for dancing.
• Physical Assessment: Our initial assessment of the dancer will involve a series of specific measurements and basic dance techniques to gauge your: turn out flexibility and intrinsic foot and ankle strength and mobility, pelvic stability, knee and core control,  posture and  calf  endurance and rise strength. Guided by our experienced and specifically trained Principal Physiotherapist Andrew Bertram, our assessments are fun, interactive and highly informative for both the dancer and care giver. 
• Written Report: Following the assessment, we will present a detailed written report via email to both the dancers care giver and dance teacher. Based on our findings, the report will encompass personalized recommendations designed to address and improve any areas of weakness, existing or potential future injuries.
• Exercise Prescription: Depending on the areas that require improvement, we will prescribe a tailored exercise training program to be carried out either at home or in our specialized rehab gym. Our programs are designed to specifically correct and enhance the dancers mobility, strength, biomechanics and technical elements required prior to going onto pointe. To monitor progress, a follow-up session or sessions will be scheduled after 3-6 weeks, involving a reassessment of areas of weakness. 
• What to Bring/Wear: Please bring your ballet shoes, however the assessment will be performed in bare feet. Wear a leotard or bike shorts and a singlet top to facilitate posture and technique assessment. Avoid wearing tights. Also, don't forget to bring the contact details of your dance teacher.

Our aim is to ensure you transition into the physical demands of pointe work safely and effectively, minimizing the risk of injury and maximizing your dance potential.  

Cost and Duration:

• Initial Pre-Pointe Assessment: $185 (includes report)
• Convenient HICAPS facilities available for instant Health Insurance rebates.
• The initial physical assessment session lasts for approximately 60 minutes. 
• A detailed report will be emailed to both the guardian and dance teacher 
• Follow - up appointments are 30minute and cost $79.50
• Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment to complete necessary paperwork.

At Bertram Physiotherapy, we are passionate about supporting dancers throughout their dance journey, providing professional care, and helping them reach their fullest potential.

Contact us today to schedule your Pre-Pointe Assessment or explore our other specialized services for dancers. 

Ph 3202 1122 or info@bertramphysiotherapy.com.au

Let's work together to keep you dancing at your best!