Transitioning to pointe work is an exciting milestone for any ballet dancer but it also demands a high level of physical readiness. At Pathways Physiotherapy, our Pre-Pointe Assessment is designed to help dancers determine whether their bodies are well-prepared to begin pointe training safely, with a strong focus on injury prevention and long-term dance health. 

Whether you’re a young dancer about to start pointe, returning from injury, or an adult dancer progressing in your training, this assessment helps ensure you have the strength, flexibility and control needed to reduce injury risk before committing to pointe classes.

What is a Pre-Pointe Assessment?

A Pre-Pointe Assessment is a one-hour physiotherapy session assessing the physical foundations required for safe pointe work. Dancing en pointe places significant demands on the body, particularly the feet, ankles, legs and core.

During this appointment, our experienced physiotherapists will take a thorough look at:

• Joint range of motion and flexibility
• Foot, ankle and lower limb strength
• Core control and overall alignment
• Balance, coordination and movement control
• Injury history and dance training background

This comprehensive approach helps us identify risk factors that may predispose a dancer to injury if pointe work is attempted too soon. 

Who Should Have a Pre-Pointe Assessment?

Any dancer preparing to begin pointe training can benefit from this assessment. For example:

• They are currently doing pre-pointe classes 
• They are preparing for pointe now or in the future, whether that’s aiming to start soon or planning ahead for the next 1–2 years
• They have recently returned from injury or a training break
• Their teacher has recommended evaluation 

Our assessments are suitable for both children and adults

What Happens Next?

After your assessment, you’ll receive clear feedback on your readiness to start pointe training. There are three possible outcomes:

1. You’re ready to begin pointe work, with confidence and reduced injury risk.
2. You’re not quite ready yet, but we’ll provide exercises and guidance to help you get there.
3. Pointe work is not suitable for you, and we’ll explain why. 

We’ll partner with you and, with your permission, your dance teachers to support a safe and successful pointe journey.

Book Your Pre-Pointe Assessment

Take the next step in your dance journey with a thorough Pointe assessment at Pathways Physiotherapy. Our experienced physiotherapists use dance expertise to help dancers achieve this goal safely. 

📞 Call us today to book or book online for your one-hour Pre-Pointe Assessment.