Functional Criteria for Assessing Pointe-Readiness

Article Title: “Functional Criteria for Assessing Pointe-Readiness”

Citation for article: Richardson M, Liederbach M, Sandow E. “Functional Criteria for Assessing Pointe-Readiness”. J Dance Med Sci. 2010;14(3):82-88

Purpose of study: To investigate whether objective, functional tests could be used in conjunction with dance teacher expertise to determine pointe readiness. 

Since age is typically used to determine pointe readiness the authors considered timing and physiological factors of puberty.  Since growth is generally at its peak during puberty, factors that influence motor control during puberty must be considered.   For example, there is a decrease in motor ability and dynamic balance during adolescence resulting from the body’s adjustment to rapid growth.  Muscles may need to produce up to 30% more force in order to produce the same amount of force/acceleration that occurred during the pre-growth spurt.  

The dancers who participated had to execute 9 tests to objectively measure their motor and neuromuscular control.  Their performance on each test was graded and the outcomes were compared against their teachers’ grade of pointe readiness.

Findings: There were three tests identified that correlated highly with the teacher’s ratings of pointe readiness. They were:

• The Topple Test - closely correlated with the teachers’ assessments of pointe readiness.

• The Airplane Test - most sensitive for distinguishing between dancers identified by teachers as ready or not ready for pointe work.

• The Saute Test - strongest predictor of pointe readiness classification overall.

Takeaways: Screenings may provide general benchmarks that promote wellness and enhanced performance. Traditional criteria for determining pointe readiness have included chronological age, years of training and ankle plantarflexion range of motion (pointe range).  The authors proposed that there are additional factors to consider; including lower extremity strength, neuromuscular control and skill acquisition. 

Additional thoughts and information: A well trained Dance Medicine Physical Therapist can be a great ally to dance teachers, dancers or parents who would like to make sure their dancers are properly prepared to begin pointe work. The PT can complete a screening that consists of an assessment of proper range of motion, flexibility, strength, alignment, basic dance technique and functional testing with targeted feedback that may assist with decision making. Additionally, if the dancer is not ready to progress en pointe the PT can advise them on exercises or other things they can do to work toward meeting the criteria.

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