Not many will think of dance as a mode of rehabilitation - we’re ingrained to go mainstream with physiotherapy, massage therapy, medicines, etc.. There is nothing wrong with that!
I often get asked (by patients) what types of exercises to do for their injury or trauma. My responses are case-by-case, of course, but for the majority, DANCE! Those suffering from chronic lumbago, postural dysfunctions, muscles stiffness and aches, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), etc., can greatly benefit from non-regimented exercises. Doing repetitions with weights, or equipment at the gym is good, why not do rehab and have fun at the same time?
For years, I danced at goth clubs to heavy thumping music and it was a great way to release pent-up anger/frustrations. Needless to say, a great workout every time. Then I was in a car accident - rolled over a guardrail, rolled some more down a ditch, and landed upside down. Survived. I couldn’t move my right neck shoulder, nor could I turn my head to end-range of motion. The pain was near unbearable. Massage therapy instructors gave me exercises and moved it along. Dance pushed it through and the experience changed my life. In 3 months I was almost at full range full recovery.
I moved on to listening to ‘happier’ music for I’ve always been a jazz fan too and embarked on a journey of ballroom and latin dances. Dance is a confidence builder and lets us be creative. Go at a pace (and at a dance) that’s comfortable. With movement, your injury has the best chance at healing quickly with mindlessly fun, and goodbye to equipments and counting reps.
Happy Feet!