1440 - Stepping into Prevention: Retrospective Cohort Study of Ankle Injuries in Broadway Performers

The aim of the study is to analyze ankle pain and injury patterns during commercial Broadway show performances with a focus on identified mechanisms of injury and contributing factors.

Design:

We retrospectively reviewed Workman's Compensation cases treated at a private performing arts therapy clinic on Broadway between 2021-2024. Cases from both current and active Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including those running for longer than six months, were included. Active and closed Workman's Compensation cases opened on or before October 16th, 2024 were reviewed.

Results:

 We report the incidence and mechanisms of ankle injuries from seven Broadway shows. The most frequent mechanisms were repetitive movements in choreography, often exacerbated by high heels. Ankle impingement was more frequent in shows with frequent use of heels. Other acute injuries commonly included sprains; these mostly occurred during rehearsals prior to a show or warm-ups, at which times improper landings or steps were made. These were further exacerbated by environmental factors such as raked stages, which increased stress on the ankles.

Conclusions: The ankle injuries among the Broadway performers are highly related to environmental factors, including footwear and stage design. Modifications in choreography, footwear, and stage design, along with improved warm-up protocols and conditioning routines, could greatly reduce the incidence and severity of ankle injuries in this population.