IADMS New York 2002   [back to the Category]

The Use of Quantitative Ultrasound in Assessing Bone Architecture in the Young Dancer   [read the french version]

Author :   Michelle Rodriguez, MPT; Marika Molnar, PT

The Use of Quantitative Ultrasound in Assessing
Bone Architecture in the Young Dancer


Michelle Rodriguez, MPT; Marika Molnar, PT
Westside Dance Physical Therapy
New York, New York, USA


The purpose of this presentation is to introduce the use of The Sahara Clinical Bone Sonometer, an FDA approved quantitative ultrasound device, as a viable clinical tool for assessing bone architecture in professional ballet dancers. The Sahara unit measures the broadband ultrasonic attenuation (BUA) and the speed of sound (SOS) of an ultrasound beam through the calcaneus in order to obtain the Quantitative Ultrasound Index (QUI) and an estimated heel bone mineral density (BMD).

The musculoskeletal systems of professional ballet dancers are exposed to mechanical loading forces and ground reaction forces that are essential for optimal bone growth and development. However, the intensity and rigorousness of their training, the incidence of low body weight, under-nutrition, and consequential low hormone levels place them at risk for overuse injuries (ie. stress fractures) and early bone loss. The Sahara unit is ideal for a clinical setting because it is a quick, low cost, and radiation-free screening tool with good longitudinal sensitivity. As part of a wellness program, we are currently using The Sahara unit with dancers in a professional dance company as a screening tool for assessing bone architecture.