PEMBROKE, MA, :Peak Physical Therapy & Sports Performance, a South Shore practice specializing in unique programs that provide comprehensive treatment in orthopedic, spine and sports medicine specialties, recently opened a specialized rehabilitation program for dancers at their Pembroke Clinic.
The Dance Rehabilitation Program focuses on the injuries and rehabilitation techniques that are specific to dancers. The Pembroke clinic, inside of the Wolves Den Sports Complex at 340 Oak Street, has dedicated studio space designed for the program.
The Dance Rehabilitation Program was developed by Jessica Smith, PT, DPT. Smith is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, IL with a major in psychology and a minor in theatre dance. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Belmont University in Nashville TN where she worked with a variety of patients including professional dancers, athletes, pre-professional dancers, recreational dancers, gymnasts, vestibular patients, and general and neurologic and orthopedic patients. Smith worked with Belmont University and the Nashville Ballet on a research project on biomechanics analysis. These studies were published and were presented at both the Combined Sections Meeting and the Performing Arts Medicine Association in 2021. She received the prestigious Graduate Student Scholarship Award for her academic and research work awarded by the faculty at Belmont University. She also is certified in level 1 dry needling and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. A formally trained dancer, Smith continues to enjoy dancing, reading and playing tennis in her spare time.
“Jessica has a unique set of skills and experience that have created this specialized program that is unique to the region,” said Eric Edelman, PT, Founder of Peak Physical & Sports Performance. “The studio is specifically designed for the rehabilitation of dancers. Dancers face a great risk of re-injury and the rehabilitation techniques used need to focus on prevention. We look forward to treating dancers from all across the region with our specialized program.”