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Ballet/Dangers of wearing worn out point shoes ?

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Expert: - 5/30/2009


Question
I got a new pair of pointe shoes about 2 months ago, and backs are totally worn-out (super bendable). Even though there's not much support anymore, it still feels pretty normal to me. Should I get new ones? What are the dangers of wearing them now?

Answer
Hi Angela. I can' t answer this question absolutely accurately because I cannot see your feet in the shoes. If the backs (meaning the shanks?) are worn out and bendable it is more likely than not that you need new shoes.

Without proper support you risk losing control and spraining or straining muscles or ligaments in your foot or ankle, or even in other joints.

I think you should have a new pair ready for the moment you are sure that your pointe shoes have gasped their last gasp. You don't want that to be in the middle of a class. Always err on the side of caution!

Shoes are replaceable - feet are not!

All the best, Dianne

Ballet

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Dianne M. Buxton

Expertise

I can answer questions about ballet positions, ballet movements and ballet technique, pointe shoes and pre pointe exercise, mens training, ballet diet, general health issues related to dance, artistry, performance, modern dance, rehabilitation from injuries, and teaching ballet. I have taught ballet, choreographed, produced and directed dance companies. For any answers related to health questions I will offer my experience, and give references to information, but I also automatically include "see a professional".

Experience

dancer, ballet and modern, choreographer, dance teacher, artistic director, ballet mistress, producer

Organizations
I.S.T.D. Actra, Actors Equity

Publications
http://ezinearticles.com http://ballettoeshoes.blogspot.com http://streetarticles.com http://balletconnections.com

Education/Credentials
Graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada where I studied Cecchetti, Bournonville, Vaganova and Graham technique. Taught at the National Ballet School of Canada, York University, George Brown College and Harvard University.

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