Dance Med Spotlight

Bethany Shum – Flexibility Matters

In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS [https://backinsteppt.com/media/] joined by London-based physiotherapist and performing arts medicine specialist Bethany Shum. * [https://backinsteppt.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Updated-Dance-Med-Spotlight-YT-covers-2025-1-1280x430.png]https://youtu.be/uPakmXE0fTo Bethany is the founder of Flexibility Matters Physio and works with performers at the National Centre for Circus Arts. Her work spans circus artists, dancers, cheerleaders, and other high-level performers navigating the demands of flexibility, strength, and performance. In this conversation, we dive into: * How to differentiate between training-related soreness and pain that may signal a problem * The “no pain, no gain” mindset in performing arts—and how it impacts long-term health * Hypermobility in dancers and performers: when it helps and when it creates challenges * What it looks like to support pre-professional circus artists in a high-demand training environment * Bethany’s journey from athlete to specialist physiotherapist This episode is especially relevant for dancers, circus artists, cheerleaders, and clinicians working in performing arts medicine who want a more nuanced understanding of pain, flexibility, and performance. 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] Listen to Bethany’s podcast: Growth Through Movement [https://www.growththroughmovement.com/] 🌐 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f310.png] Learn more: www.fmphysio.com [http://www.fmphysio.com] 📲 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f4f2.png] Follow: @flexibility_matters [http://www.instagram.com/flexibility_matters] | @thecheerphysio [http://www.instagram.com/thecheerphysio] Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commission at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Bethany Shum – Flexibility Matters [https://backinsteppt.com/2026/05/09/bethany-shum-flexibility-matters/] appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy [https://backinsteppt.com].

Shane Wuerthner – Athletistry

This episode features a conversation with Shane Wuerthner, a former professional ballet dancer turned coach and educator who is passionate about bridging the gap between classical ballet and modern sports science. Hosted by Dr. Alyssa Arms, PT, DPT, OCS. [https://backinsteppt.com/media/] * [https://backinsteppt.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Updated-Dance-Med-Spotlight-YT-covers-2025-1280x430.png]https://youtu.be/JIs0Qwb8Q5Y After a 12-year international career, Shane now helps dancers train smarter and stay healthier. Instead of pushing harder or stretching more, he focuses on helping dancers understand how their bodies work. As the founder of Athletistry, he brings together ballet, strength training, anatomy, and mindset. In this episode, we talk about how dance training is changing. For example, we look at how traditional class structure and corrections may not always match what we now know about the body. We also discuss how strength training and cross-training can support both performance and injury risk reduction. In addition, Shane shares why a long-term approach matters. Rather than chasing quick results, dancers benefit from building strength, improving body awareness, and practicing with intention over time. In this episode, we discuss: * How ballet and sports science can work together * Why some traditional training methods may need to evolve * How strength training supports dancers * Why understanding anatomy can reduce injury risk * The value of a long-term, sustainable approach ---------------------------------------- ABOUT OUR GUEST Shane Wuerthner is a former professional ballet dancer and certified fitness professional who now works as a coach, educator, and ballet teacher. He is the founder of Athletistry, an education platform designed to help dancers integrate technique, strength training, anatomy, and mindset into their training. Learn more and connect with Shane: * Workshops: Athletistry.au/workshops * YouTube: youtube.com/@athletistryofficial * Instagram: instagram.com/athletistry * TikTok: tiktok.com/athletistry * Facebook: facebook.com/athletistry Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commission at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Shane Wuerthner – Athletistry [https://backinsteppt.com/2026/04/02/shane-wuerthner-athletistry/] appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy [https://backinsteppt.com].

Kristen Schuyten – The Performing Arts PT

On this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, host Dr. Alyssa Arms [https://backinsteppt.com/media/] is joined by Dr. Kristen Schuyten, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, CSCS — board-certified sports physical therapist, strength and conditioning specialist, and educator. * [https://backinsteppt.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2-2-1280x430.png]https://youtu.be/85tx9zoaaM4 Dr. Schuyten serves as a Clinical Specialist at MedSport through Michigan Medicine, works with the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, sits on the University of Michigan Concussion Center Faculty Council, lectures in the Department of Dance, volunteers as a physiotherapist for the U.S. Figure Skating National Team, and is the owner of PerformWell PLLC. With 20 years of experience working with dancers, gymnasts, figure skaters, musicians, and other performing artists, Kristen has been instrumental in developing structured, evidence-informed concussion return-to-dance protocols — work that is currently being implemented at the university level and undergoing peer review. This is a conversation that dance medicine professionals, educators, studio owners, and dancers themselves need to hear. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS * Concussion in Dance: Why dancers are at risk and why the field must catch up with consistent management and clearance strategies. * Return to Learn + Return to Dance: Implementing stepwise academic and performance progressions after concussion. * Building Institutional Protocols: How universities, studios, and organizations can create their own roadmap. * Warm-Up & Cool-Down: Why structured preparation and recovery matter for injury risk reduction. * Navigating Online Misinformation: Helping dancers differentiate social media advice from evidence-based care. ---------------------------------------- CONNECT WITH DR. KRISTEN SCHUYTEN Follow Kristen for education and performing arts health resources: * YouTube / Instagram / TikTok: @theperformingartspt * Website: www.performwell-pt.com [http://www.performwell-pt.com] If this episode was helpful, share it with a dancer, educator, or healthcare provider in your community. Conversations like this help move dance medicine forward. Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commission at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Kristen Schuyten – The Performing Arts PT [https://backinsteppt.com/2026/03/05/kristen-schuyten-the-performing-arts-pt/] appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy [https://backinsteppt.com].

Dance Med Spotlight: Top Episodes of 2025 & All-Time Favorites

As we close out 2025 and begin the new year, it’s time to reflect on the conversations that shaped 2025—and revisit the episodes that continue to resonate year after year. * [https://backinsteppt.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Top-5-of-2025-Video-1500x430.png]https://youtu.be/AW6oFAjxYWA If you’re new here, Dance Med Spotlight is where we bridge the gap between dancers, teachers, healthcare providers, and anyone who supports dancers along the way. Hosted by Dr. Alyssa Arms [https://backinsteppt.com/media/], this podcast creates space for evidence-informed, dancer-centered conversations that matter. This year, we covered everything from trauma-informed teaching to systemic change, hypermobility, and sustainable strength training. Today’s post highlights: ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] Top 5 Episodes of 2025 ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] Top 5 Episodes of All Time ✅ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2705.png] Key Themes That Keep Rising to the Top ---------------------------------------- TOP 5 EPISODES OF 2025 #5 – COURTNEY ADAIR: TRAUMA-INFORMED DANCE INSTRUCTION Courtney returned to the podcast to unpack what trauma-informed teaching looks like in real dance spaces. From private lessons to social dance, her insights remind us that “trauma is too much, too fast, too soon”—and that power dynamics are always present. One of my favorite takeaways? Treat everything in dance as an experiment. That mindset creates safety and agency for dancers. 📸 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4f8.svg] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/court_adair/] 🛜 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f6dc.svg] Website [https://www.courtneyadairtherapy.com/] ---------------------------------------- #4 – SARAH TYNDALL: SUPPORTING DANCERS BEYOND THE PHYSICAL Sarah challenged us to see dancers as whole humans. Emotional load, stress, and environment matter just as much as technique. Support isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about building systems that help dancers thrive before injury or burnout ever happens. 🌐 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f310.svg] restore-reform-pt.com [https://restore-reform-pt.com/] 📱 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4f1.svg] @restore.reform.pt on Instagram and Facebook ▶ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/25b6.svg] YouTube: Restore Reform PT [https://www.youtube.com/@RestoreReformPT] ---------------------------------------- #3 – DR. LINDA BLUESTEIN: HYPERMOBILITY, EDS, AND INDIVIDUALIZED CARE This episode remains a go-to resource for understanding bendy bodies. Dr. Bluestein reminded us that “if you’ve seen one person with EDS, you’ve seen one person with EDS.” Hypermobility can be an asset—but only with individualized care and strength training. 🌐 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f310.svg] Hypermobility MD Website [https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/] 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f3a7.svg] Bendy Bodies Podcast [https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/] 📰 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4f0.svg] Bendy Bulletin on Substack [https://hypermobilitymd.substack.com/] 📺 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4fa.svg] Bendy Bodies on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast] 📱 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4f1.svg] Socials: @HypermobilityMD on IG, FB, LinkedIn, X, TikTok @Bendy_Bodies on IG ---------------------------------------- #2 – MARIA HARALAMBIS: BUILDING BETTER SYSTEMS FOR DANCERS Maria shifted the lens from individual bodies to the systems surrounding them. Dancers don’t need more pressure—they need better support and communication. This episode resonated with anyone trying to create change within imperfect structures. Instagram: @the.dancescientist [https://www.instagram.com/the.dancescientist] TikTok: @the.dancescientist 🌐 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f310.svg]Website: www.thedancescientist.com [https://www.thedancescientist.com/] Dance Ed Shop: thedancescienceshop.com [https://thedancescienceshop.com/] ---------------------------------------- #1 – GALIT FRIEDLANDER: STRENGTH, LONGEVITY, AND MEETING DANCERS WHERE THEY ARE Galit bridged artistry and physical preparation beautifully. Her reminder that “dancers are the experts in dance—we build bridges” struck a chord. Strength training should support artistry, not compete with it. 💻 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4bb.svg] Website: www.gogalit.com [http://www.gogalit.com/] 🎙 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f399.svg] Podcast: www.dancespeakpodcast.com [http://www.dancespeakpodcast.com/] 📚 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4da.svg] Online Courses: Galit’s School [https://galit-s-school-0397.thinkific.com/collections] 📷 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4f7.svg] Instagram: @gogalit [https://www.instagram.com/gogalit] | @dancespeakpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/dancespeakpodcast] 💼 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4bc.svg] LinkedIn: Galit Friedlander [https://www.linkedin.com/in/galit-friedlander-9a5741b8/] 📺 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f4fa.svg] YouTube: GoGalit [https://www.youtube.com/gogalit] ---------------------------------------- TOP 5 EPISODES OF ALL TIME These episodes never leave the conversation: * #5 – Courtney Adair (2023): Identity, power, and how dancers show up. * #4 – Dr. Linda Bluestein: A cornerstone for understanding hypermobility. * #3 – Maria Haralambis: Honest talk about sustainable systems. * #2 – Galit Friedlander: Artistry meets strength and autonomy. * #1 – Chantelle Pianetta: Pressure, identity, and sustainability in high-demand environments. ---------------------------------------- THEMES THAT CONNECT THEM ALL * The body is not the problem. Pain and hypermobility are adaptations, not failures. * Power and permission matter. How we use power shapes safety in dance spaces. * Feeling good ≠ less excellence. Longevity and peak performance thrive when dancers feel supported. * Collaboration beats competition. Teachers, clinicians, and educators working together serve dancers best. ---------------------------------------- Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of this community. Explore past episodes https://backinsteppt.com/dance-med-spotlight-podcast/ and connect with our guests for more insights. Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Dance Med Spotlight: Top Episodes of 2025 & All-Time Favorites [https://backinsteppt.com/2026/01/01/topepisodesof2025/] appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy [https://backinsteppt.com].

Rosa Pasculli & Emma Faulkner – Dance/USA

On this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, host Dr. Alyssa Arms [https://backinsteppt.com/media/] is joined by Dr. Rosa Pasculli and Dr. Emma Faulkner for a conversation centered on the Dance/USA Task Force on Dancer Health and its growing impact on the dance community. * Dance/USA [https://backinsteppt.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3-1-1280x430.png]https://youtu.be/5evE8jbbQpA In this conversation, they explain what Dance/USA is and why the Task Force was created. They also share how its resources support dancers, dance educators, and healthcare providers. In addition, they explore cross-training and strength training for dancers and address common myths that still exist in dance culture. Throughout the episode, Rosa and Emma emphasize collaboration and evidence-informed care. As a result, listeners walk away with practical tools to better support dancer health, performance, and career longevity. ---------------------------------------- GUESTS Rosa Pasculli, MD, MBA, RMSK is a sports medicine physiatrist at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. Her clinical focus includes care of the female athlete and dance medicine. She serves as Head Team Physician for Emory University and works as a consulting physician for the Atlanta Ballet, The Georgia Ballet, and the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders. In addition, Dr. Pasculli is the Secretary of the Dance/USA Task Force on Dancer Health Executive Committee. Emma Faulkner, PT, DPT is an orthopedic physical therapist based in Atlanta, GA. She is the owner of TriHealth Physical Therapy and the co-founder of Atlanta Dance Medicine. Emma works closely with dancers throughout the Atlanta metro area. She is the lead physical therapist for multiple modern dance companies and an adjunct faculty member in Emory University’s Department of Theater and Dance. She also serves as the Screening Chair for the Dance/USA Task Force on Dancer Health Executive Committee. ---------------------------------------- WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE * What Dance/USA is and how the Task Force on Dancer Health supports dancer wellness nationwide * Why dancer screenings matter and how they are used in professional and educational settings * How cross-training and strength training support dancer health and performance * Common myths about strength training in dancers—and what current evidence shows instead * Why collaboration between physicians, physical therapists, educators, and organizations is essential * ---------------------------------------- CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS & ORGANIZATIONS * Rosa Pasculli, MD: @rosapasculliMD * Emma Faulkner, PT, DPT: @dancingemdpt * Dance/USA: @danceusaorg Please note that Back in Step PT may receive a share of sales due to the use of affiliate links. This means we receive a commision at no additional cost to you! We only share products that we personally use and love, whether it’s in the clinic or at home. The post Rosa Pasculli & Emma Faulkner – Dance/USA [https://backinsteppt.com/2025/12/18/rosa-pasculli-emma-faulkner-dance-usa/] appeared first on Back In Step Physical Therapy [https://backinsteppt.com].