In this episode of 'Science of Slink,' hosted by Dr. Rosy Boa, the focus is on the details of dancing in pole heels, a theme for June 2025. Dr. Boa outlines essential tips for choosing the right shoes, including the benefits of platforms, the significance of a sturdy stiletto, and the importance of proper shoe fit. She delves into the mechanics of balance, the challenges posed by the additional weight of heels, and strategies to avoid foot cramps. Additionally, Dr. Boa emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the roots of pole dancing in strip clubs and supporting sex workers, highlighting her studio's monthly contributions to various support organizations. Lastly, practical advice is offered on warming up properly to prevent foot cramps and ensuring better performance while dancing in heels.

Are you a pole nerd interested in trying out online pole classes with Slink Through Strength? We’d love to have you! Use the code “podcast” for 10% off the Intro Pack and try out all of our unique online pole classes: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/catalog/25a67bd1/?productId=1828315&clearCart=true 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Theme Announcement

00:51 Acknowledging the Roots of Pole Dancing

01:49 The Mechanics of Dancing in Heels

06:16 Choosing the Right Pole Heels

12:47 Preventing Foot Cramps and Injuries

16:19 Addressing Bunions and Final Thoughts

Citations:

• More information on the intrinsic muscles of the foot

• Card, R. K., & Bordoni, B. (2023). Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.

• Despite popular belief there is no strong scientific evidence that shoes or high heels cause bunions.

• Nix, S. E., Vicenzino, B. T., Collins, N. J., & Smith, M. D. (2012). Characteristics of foot structure and footwear associated with hallux valgus: a systematic review. Osteoarthritis and cartilage, 20(10), 1059-1074.

• Not even if you dance in shoes (including pointe shoes!).

• Kennedy, J. G., & Collumbier, J. A. (2008). Bunions in dancers. Clinics in sports medicine, 27(2), 321-328.

• Bunions seem to be mostly genetic.

• Coughlin, M. J., & Jones, C. P. (2007). Hallux valgus: demographics, etiology, and radiographic assessment. Foot & ankle international, 28(7), 759-777. 

• Hannan, M. T., Menz, H. B., Jordan, J. M., Cupples, L. A., Cheng, C. H., & Hsu, Y. H. (2013). High heritability of hallux valgus and lesser toe deformities in adult men and women. Arthritis care & research, 65(9), 1515-1521. 

• Piqué-Vidal, C., Solé, M. T., & Antich, J. (2007). Hallux valgus inheritance: pedigree research in 350 patients with bunion deformity. The Journal of foot and ankle surgery, 46(3), 149-154.