700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Posts by Ashley Minnick, MSAH, AT, ATC

Posted by: Ashley Minnick, MSAH, AT, ATC on Mar 24, 2026

Going en pointe takes more than ambition—it requires the right age, strength, technique, and training. Learn the key readiness criteria, why a pointe screening can help prevent injury, and how a properly fitted pointe shoe supports safe, strong dancing all season long.

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girl on a horse with her teacher in front of the horse
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Back in the Saddle: Injuries in the Equestrian Athlete
Horseback riding is exciting—but falls, kicks, and overuse injuries can happen both in and out of the saddle. Learn practical ways to reduce risk with helmets, boots, safety stirrups, and proper supervision, plus common injury patterns in young riders and when ongoing pain should be evaluated.
image of two boys and a girl in karate stance
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Common Injuries in Martial Arts and How to Defend Your Child Against Them
Martial arts can help your child gain confidence, focus, and coordination while being physically active. While injuries are a possibility for any activity, being prepared can decrease those risks. 

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

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A teenage ballet dancer is tying her pointe shoe.

Performing Arts Medicine: Preventing Injuries to the Artistic Athlete

Jan 15, 2026

Dance competitions demand strength, artistry, and long hours of practice—so injuries are common, especially in the feet, ankles, hips, and back. Learn what puts dancers at higher risk, why specialized care matters, and how Nationwide Children’s Performing Arts Medicine team supports injury prevention, pointe readiness, and safe, strong performances. Read More