Prepoint assessments
Our role as both dance teachers and podiatrists is to look at the whole child and take into consideration many factors when considering readiness for pointe work.
GENERAL CRITERIA INCLUDES:
dancer in equivalent of grade 5 ballet or above
pre-pointe exercises and training has been undertaken in the preceding 6 months
dancer is at least 11 years of age
a minimum of two ballet classes per week are taken
has been studying and dancing ballet for a minimum of 5 years
has the maturity, knowledge and commitment required for pointe work
understands the importance of foot and lower limb health, has a basic understanding of the anatomy and recognises the importance of ongoing care and management of the body
is able to take feedback and instruction from the ballet teacher and practitioner and apply it into practice
This is a guide only and a students technical ability and strength may supersede the above criteria.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS WE CONSIDER:
turnout is maintained whilst dancing
shows strong core control and postural alignment when dancing and when in stationary positions.
exhibits adequate foot control
demonstrates an understanding of correct ankle and foot alignment to eliminate rolling in or sickling.
releves onto one leg with strong control
is able to perform a minimum of 20 single leg rises, maintaining alignment and without fatigue
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE PRE-POINTE PROGRAM?
Our assessment services vary depending on the requirements of your child. They are 1 on 1 sessions in the clinic to work through technique and correct foot placement as well as strengthening.
We like to see dancers in the 6-12 months before they are to commence pointe work to determine what level of strengthening and technique work is required. Throughout this process, we work alongside your child’s dance teachers to ensure the best possible outcome for your child.
Your first appointment will usually consist of a pre-pointe assessment that involves a comprehensive functional and physical assessment to examine a range of exercises and ballet steps. This will give us an idea of the pointe range, turnout range, core strength, leg strength and foot control.
You will then be given a range of exercises to help with your pre-pointe training and is reviewed accordingly over the following months.
WHAT TO WEAR
We ask you wear a leotard with convertible tights as most of the work will be performed barefoot. Bring your ballet shoes, school shoes and runners so we can assess your feet and gait in a day to day manner.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Our pre-pointe assessments take 40 minutes, during which your Podiatrist will consider your history, conduct the full physical assessment and provide relevant exercises as appropriate.
HOW TO BOOK
Please notify our receptionists when making a pre-pointe assessment, so we can allocate appropriate appointment length or book online via the enquiry button below.
ASSESSMENT COST
Initial consultation cost is $100.00. You can receive your private health insurance rebate instantly through our HICAPS direct claiming system. A detailed report for your dance teacher will also be provided.