Question
Im 16 years old and i have recently started back to dancing after an injury about 2 and a half years ago. I was in middle of doing the spilts when i fell and heard a pop, then i looked and saw id dislocated my left knee, ever since this incident my knee has been very painful occasionally and feels weak. I started dancing again a few weeks back and i now do urban/street dancing but i would reali love to start ballet, however i am aware this type of dancing puts huge strain on your knees. So i was wondering is it a bad idea to start ballet with my injury or do you think it will make it stronger? Of course i will seek doctors advice before i start the dance class but i decided i would ask your advice first.
Thanx a million.
Amy.

Answer
Amy,

First, before I (or anyone) can make any recommendations at all, it is imperitive that you undergo a thorough functional and orthopedic examination.   I would suggest seeing a sports chiropractor.   If you can find a DACBSP from this site, www.acbsp.com, then go for an evaluation.  This way, it can be determined what is damaged, what is at a deficit, what is weak, and what anatomic limitations you may have.   If all checks out well, then there is no reason to avoid ballet.   

'Regards,

Dr. G