Chiropractic for Zumba Injuries?!

Chiropractors warn dancers to take care after spike in Zumba related injuries

- Chiropractors see spike in Zumba injuries
- "There is a tendency to get carried away"
- At risk: Hips, knees, ankles, lower-back

ZUMBA may be the latest exercise craze, but busting a move could cost you more than the class fee.

Chiropractors in New South Wales have reported an increase in Zumba-related injuries as people jump on the Latin-American style dance bandwagon.

Injuries include hip, knee and ankle joint pain, muscle soreness across the shoulders, tightness in the calves and hamstrings and lower-back discomfort, the Chiropractors Association of Australia NSW says.

Dr Kerein Earney said large Zumba class sizes and a less structured format meant people were giving it a go without individual guidance and may not realise they're performing a move incorrectly until they wake up with a sore shoulder, back or knee the next day.

"Zumba is fun, fast paced and energetic, which is great to get the heart pumping, but does increase the risk of sprains and strains. So people should keep in mind their current fitness levels and any pre-existing injuries," she said.

"Because people are dancing to modern music away from the gym environment, there is a tendency to get carried away and push the body beyond its limitations."

Health Club operator Fitness First said it hadn't seen an increase in injuries with Zumba.

But Fitness First Zumba instructor Rachel Kalwy said people should be aware of their existing fitness level and health before starting a new activity.

"If you're beginning your fitness journey it's advisable before starting any exercise program to consult your doctor before you begin," she said.

"Always be sure to attend a Zumba class conducted by a fitness professional and if it's your first time, you should let the instructor know."

Here at Rosa Chiropractic of Alexandria I continue to see more and more patient's entering my office with Zumba injures. It is very important to receive treatment when you injure yourself when exercising. Pushing through the injuries to stay in shape will further progress your injury, and therefore make it more difficult to treat while taking more time to heal.