Book Review: Dance Injuries Edited by Jeffrey A. Russell

As the physical and mental demands on dancers continue to grow, so too does the need for reliable, evidence-based guidance on injury prevention and care. Dance Injuries: Reducing Risk and Maximizing Performance, edited by Jeffrey A. Russell, is a landmark publication that bridges the gap between science and the studio, offering a comprehensive and holistic roadmap to help dancers stay strong, healthy, and performing at their best.

This textbook-style resource is anything but dry. Written by a global team of contributors—including physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists, researchers, and educators—Dance Injuries delivers both depth and accessibility. The book tackles a wide range of topics including common dance injuries, physical and mental preparation strategies, and injury management protocols, making it a must-have for educators, students, and healthcare professionals working with dancers across all styles.

What sets Dance Injuries apart is its multi-disciplinary approach. It doesn’t just explain what can go wrong—it equips dancers and teachers with the tools to proactively reduce the risk of injury through a wellness-based model. From proper warm-ups and cross-training techniques to understanding biomechanics and anatomy, the book connects high-level concepts to real-world application. Visual learners will benefit from nearly 200 full-colour photos and medical illustrations, helping to demystify the complex inner workings of the dancer’s body.

For dance educators and studio directors, the book includes strategies to:

• Interpret and apply scientific research on injury trends
• Collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals
• Integrate safe practices into training routines
• Foster mental resilience as a core part of injury prevention

The added bonus of HKPropel online access means that instructors and students can continue learning beyond the pages. This digital platform offers engaging application activities, supplemental content, and valuable extension resources that align with each chapter—ideal for use in dance programs, tertiary institutions, or continuing education environments.

Dance Injuries doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. It highlights the long-term implications of improper training habits and encourages a shift in mindset: from reacting to injuries, to actively preventing them. It’s an essential step toward nurturing smarter, stronger, and longer-lasting dancers.

Highly recommended for:

• Dance teachers, studio owners, and choreographers
• Tertiary dance students and conservatory programs
• Healthcare professionals working with dancers
• Anyone interested in the long-term wellbeing of dance artists