CIRCUS MEDICINE
What is Circus Medicine?
It is the specialized field of physical therapy that caters to the unique needs of circus athletes. Circus performers subject their bodies to significant stress. Consequently, injury prevention becomes essential to enjoy a long career. Our circus-specific physical therapy establishes a plan of care and goals individualized based on a diagnosis and assessment of condition specific to your circus needs.
Your body, your needs, your therapy. At Studio Rehab, we believe in creating a treatment plan that is specific to you. Assessment will include posture and movement analysis, test and measures, joint mobility and range of motion, muscle length and flexibility, strength tests, grip, hanging and inversion assessment relevant to your circus discipline. Treatments sessions are individualized based on initial evaluation and diagnosis, and may include manual therapy, joint mobilizations, dry needling with electric stimulation, soft tissue mobilizations, cupping, corrective exercises, home exercise program, education, body mechanics, posture, and Pilates reformer and circus specific interventions.
Dr Amanda Fitzgerald is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Pelvic Rehab Practitioner Specialist, and Pilates Certified Instructor. Her circus focus has been static trapeze, which she considers Pilates in the air, since 2018. She participates in ongoing continuing education courses in Circus Medicine and has a special interest in helping circus athletes return to sport.
Many circus activities involve lifting, supporting, or hanging from apparatus overhead. Maintaining strong and stable shoulders helps reduce the risk of overuse injuries and strains during these overhead movements. By prioritizing joint health, circus athletes can extend their careers and continue to enjoy the art form without being hindered by chronic joint problems or early retirement due to injuries. Preventing these injuries involves a comprehensive approach, including proper warm-up, strengthening exercises, technique refinement, and regular monitoring of shoulder health by healthcare professionals.
Early intervention and rehabilitation are crucial for circus athletes to maintain optimal shoulder function and prevent long-term issues. Targeted strength training for the rotator cuff muscles is crucial for circus athletes to enhance shoulder stability and prevent injuries. Incorporating rotator cuff strength training and scapular stabilization into a well-rounded workout routine can contribute to improved shoulder stability and reduced risk of injuries for circus athletes.
Maintaining proper technique is essential for both the artistic and safety aspects of circus performances. Consistent training, attention to detail, and ongoing refinement of technique contribute to successful and captivating circus acts. Regular attention to movement patterns, technique refinement, and targeted corrective exercises contribute to injury prevention and safer return to aerial after injury.
Peace, Love, Pilates & Circus,
Amanda Fitzgerald, Physical Therapist, Pelvic Rehab Practitioner Specialist, Certified Pilates Instructor, Recreational Trapeze Artist
