Benefits of Osteopathy for Dancers

An other Tokyo patient Google review: translated from Japanese

" I visited for treatment of my foot in order to continue dancing ballet.

For about two years, I've been experiencing pain on the top of my left foot, and I've been unable to strongly push off or press against the floor during allegro or jumps.

I came without a referral because the reviews were excellent—and they were spot on!

The doctor was very gentlemanly, enjoyable to talk to, highly experienced, and extremely knowledgeable. I learned that he had even treated dancers from the Royal Ballet, which gave me more hope than I had expected.

In the first session, he thoroughly and carefully loosened the stiffened areas—shin, calf, sole of the foot, and top of the foot—with strong, precise pressure. It felt as though light had finally reached the top of my foot, which had been blocked for so long, creating a sensation of “space” opening up. I had been examined in many places before, but this was the first time I felt something like this. I thought, “This can be healed!” and hope welled up inside me.

After resting for a week, in my next lesson the pain was almost gone, and for the first time in a long while, I was able to perform grand jetés.

However, the pain wasn't completely gone, so I continued treatment.

In the second session, I also received a treatment called “dynamic osteopathy” to “reset the body.” The procedure was quite shocking, but just as the doctor said, within 1–2 minutes I could move normally, and I felt a lightness as if space had opened up in my spine.

The real surprise came the next morning: my ribs and the area around my solar plexus felt like muscle soreness even though I hadn't done anything. My breathing became deeper, and I realized that parts of my body that hadn't been moving before had finally started to work.

After resting for a few days, in my lesson my upper body movement had clearly changed, and even my attitude derrière—with the back leg that I couldn't lift before—became much easier to raise.

Additionally, thanks to the doctor patiently loosening it, the pain in my left big toe—which hurt when I went into relevé or turned out—has completely disappeared.

Now I’m thinking I might even be able to wear pointe shoes for the February recital… Though I've slightly increased the load on my foot, I plan to continue borrowing the doctor's expertise to not only fix the top of my left foot but also align my hips and lower back.

Even in my late 40s, as long as I have this doctor, it feels like I can keep dancing joyfully forever!!

The future has become something to look forward to 😊✨✨"

Did you know osteopathy isn't just for athletes—it's a game-changer for dancers too? Whether you're aiming to elevate your technique, recover from a nagging injury, or simply boost your flexibility and strength, our Ebisu practice has you covered (from head to toe—your entire dancer self!).

Here's why osteopathy could become your new dance bestie:

1. Enhanced Flexibility & Strength

Dancers thrive on being both limber and powerful. Osteopathy delivers exactly that through soft tissue work and gentle joint mobilization, helping to:

- Release muscle tension

- Increase joint mobility

- Address minor restrictions before they lead to injuries

If your kicks aren't hitting their peak height or your splits feel off, it might be time for a tune-up!

2. Injury Prevention

Dance takes a toll, but osteopathy acts as a proactive shield for your muscles and joints. By promoting balance, flexibility, and resilience, it helps ward off:

- Sprains and strains (ankles, knees, hips—you name it!)

- Tendon issues (like Achilles tendinitis)

- Back and pelvic pain

- Foot discomfort from pointe or high-impact work

Balanced muscles mean uninterrupted grooves!

3. Pain Relief & Recovery

Pulled something in rehearsal? Osteopathy can step in to:

- Alleviate joint and muscle pain

- Reduce swelling and inflammation

- Accelerate healing for a stronger comeback

Say goodbye to skipped steps or grimacing through pirouettes.

4. Improved Circulation & Energy

Optimal blood flow keeps you in top form. Osteopathy enhances fluid movement throughout your body, which can:

- Ease cramps, tingling, or swelling

- Combat fatigue and keep energy levels steady

- Support your body's natural self-healing

It's like a maintenance boost for your dancer's engine.

5. Stress Reduction & Relaxation

The dance world is demanding—endless rehearsals, shows, and quick changes add up. Osteopathy helps you unwind by:

- Melting away deep-seated tension

- Enhancing flexibility and uplifting your mood

- Leaving you feeling lighter, more centered, and eager to spin

Lower stress equals brighter, more fluid performances.

Whether you're rehabbing a dance mishap or just want to feel more agile and empowered, we're here to support you. Our osteopaths specialize in nurturing dancers' bodies, preventing setbacks, and prepping you to dazzle on stage.

Book your session today