Student Wellness

WELLNESS RESOURCES:
Boston Ballet School partners with the best dance medicine professionals in New England.  Our wellness consultants have been carefully chosen because of their specialized skills in working with young dancers.

Jan Hangen, M.S., R.D., L.D.N.
Ms. Hangen has been our consulting nutritionist for many years.  She is affiliated with Children's Hospital Sports Medicine Clinic in Boston and Waltham.  Ms. Hangen is available as a referral to help students develop a personalized nutrition program.
Ms. Hangen may be reached at: 617.566.7100

Susan Kinney
Ms. Kinney is our consulting physical therapist and leads our Physical Therapy Clinic.  She is the owner of Artists Rehabilitation Therapy Services (ARTS) and has more than twenty-five years experience working with young dancers and athletes.  Ms. Kinney is a member of the Children's Hospital Sports Medicine Dance Team. 
Ms. Kinney may be reached at susankinneyarts@aol.com

Katherine Wilson LICSW
Ms. Wilson is our consulting psychotherapist.  A graduate of Smith College School for Social Work, she currently works at Comprehensive Psychiatric Associates in Wellesley and has over 15 years experience working with adolescents, families and young adults.  Ms. Wilson trained at the School of American Ballet and danced professionally with the Pacific Northwest Ballet.  She has a deep understanding of the unique needs of dancers.
Ms. Wilson may be reached at: katherinewilson@comcast.net

INJURY PREVENTION:
There are several steps dancers can and should take to help prevent injuries:

Warm up properly. Dancers should arrive at the studio early to do light stretching and exercises focusing on the stomach and back. If they are recovering from an injury, the injured area should be specifically warmed-up prior to class.

1. Pay attention to nutrition. Eat well, as appropriate to your metabolism, to keep your muscles and bones strong and able to deal effectively with the extra strains and stresses of dancing. Intensive students are encouraged to consult with a nutritionist to obtain a peak performance nutrition plan.
   
2. Allow yourself time to fully recover from injuries. Be patient with your body, and be diligent in performing any physical therapy exercises you may have. Your teachers and principal will not penalize you for taking the time you need.
   
3. See your doctor if you believe you may be injured. Don’t take chances with your body. If you have pain at one site of your body which continues or increases as you are participating in classes, please see your doctor and inform your teacher. Early detection is the key to preventing serious injury. Please inform your teacher if your doctor has recommended a less rigorous class during your recovery period.
   
4. Ice Massage. If you are unable to see your doctor immediately when you suspect an injury, the best home treatment is to massage the affected area with ice. Eight minutes of ice massage, followed by a five-minute break, then eight more minutes of ice massage, three or four times per day, is usually adequate. Always use a thin cloth or towel between the ice and your skin, or be sure to keep the ice moving, and do not leave the ice on too long.