Validating a dance-specific screening test for balance: preliminary results from multisite testing

Area of Science:

• Dance science
• Biomechanics
• Sports medicine

Background:

• Assessing dancer balance is crucial for injury prevention.
• Existing screening tools may not adequately capture dance-specific balance demands.
• The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) has potential but requires adaptation for dancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and evaluate the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT) as a balance screening tool for dancers.
• To investigate the utility of the original SEBT and its modifications in a dance population.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-three dancers from UK and US conservatories performed the original SEBT and four modified versions (mSEBT).
• Modifications included timed, cognitive interference, and sensory-disadvantaging conditions (foam mat).
• Dancers' stepping and performance strategies were video-recorded and analyzed.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in distance were found for the original SEBT.
• Dancers exhibited diverse performance strategies despite instructions.
• The mSEBT revealed increased near-falls and reduced timing, particularly on the injured limb.

Conclusions:

• Dancers utilize varied strategies to maintain balance during balance tests.
• Further quantitative analysis is needed to validate mSEBT modifications for dancer-specific balance screening.
• The mSEBT shows promise for identifying balance deficits in dancers.