Breakdancers most often suffer physical injuries in the spine, wrists, shoulders and ankles. The twisting of the spine can result in a spinal disc injury. The cartilage disc in between the vertebrae can be twisted out place, pinching the nerve root and causing a 'funny-bone' sensation in the extremities. The 144 professional and amateur breakdancers surveyed for the "American Journal of Sports Medicine" reported having a total of 1665 physical injuries.
Breakdancers repeatedly stress ligaments and tendons, which often leads to an overuse syndrome. In the "American Journal of Sports Medicine," 70 percent of all breakdancers surveyed reported an overuse syndrome injury. The syndrome results in pain and limited range of motion, often in the wrist or shoulder. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the wrist, making it tender and difficult to perform dance maneuvers that involve handstands.
Despite their numerous injuries, breakdancers tend to spend very little time away from the sport. Breakdancers took what was described by the German researchers as a "surprisingly short" break after being injured -- six days. The desire to get back on the dance floor may have something to do with the rate of physical injury and overuse syndrome.
In the German study all professional break dancers reported injuries, while 96 percent of amateurs reported injuries. The demand to be on stage for paid performance gives professionals very little time away form the sport, even after injury. However, the "American Journal of Sports Medicine" reports that the effects of this repeated strain and stress can be reduced with the use of safety equpment; wrist braces, helmets, knee and elbow pads.
Breakdancing strengthens every area of the body, including arms, core, hips, buttocks and legs due to the explosive moves and holding and stopping of the body in various positions. Some dances call for you to move parts of your body independently, giving you more body control and improving your balance as you put your body into various positions. The sport can be both aerobic and anaerobic, burning calories and keeping you fit.