Musculoskeletal Injections in Dancers: Therapeutic Approaches for Injury Recovery and Performance Optimization

Abstract

Background: Dancers are uniquely susceptible to musculoskeletal injuries due to the repetitive, high-impact, and technical demands of their art form. When conservative measures are insufficient or expedited recovery is needed, injection therapy may be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Purpose: This narrative review provides a high-level overview of musculoskeletal injections relevant to dancers. As many dancers receive education and initial guidance from non-physician professionals, this review is designed to support these providers by summarizing common injection options, the conditions for which they are most appropriate, and dancer-specific considerations. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar was conducted through March 2025. Peer-reviewed studies, systematic reviews, and case reports were analyzed qualitatively. Injections in this review are organized by clinical indication rather than preference, reflecting how decisions are made in practice. Selecting an injection requires consideration of multiple contextual factors, including the dancer’s diagnosis, performance schedule, symptom chronicity, therapeutic goals, and comorbid medical issues. Results: Five main categories of injections were identified: (1) fluid aspiration, (2) corticosteroid injections, (3) regenerative medicine, (4) peripheral nerve hydrodissections, and (5) spine injections. Image guidance with ultrasound and/or fluoroscopy enhances accuracy and safety across injection types. Corticosteroid injections offer potent anti-inflammatory effects and rapid symptom relief. Regenerative medicine injections (hyaluronic acid, prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma [PRP], and mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies), aim to enhance tissue healing and may be beneficial for chronic tendinopathies and mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Peripheral nerve hydrodissection provides a minimally invasive approach for nerve entrapment syndromes, and spinal injections may be indicated for persistent axial or radicular pain. Post-injection care and return-to-dance protocols should be individualized based on the injectate, anatomical target, and performance goals. Conclusion: Musculoskeletal injections can be a valuable tool in a dancer’s treatment plan alongside multidisciplinary care for successful return to dance.