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Report: Zumba injuries on rise

Using the right shoes, floor, instructor can help

Zumba is the Latin dance-inspired craze that's sweeping the world.  But as its popularity increases, so do injuries.

Instructor Kathy Muglio developed severe foot pain after doing Zumba on a cement floor.

"You could take a couple of steps, it became extremely painful and difficult," she said.

Dr. Joel Buchalter, an orthopedic surgeon, has seen a number of patients with Zumba-related injuries to their knees, hips and lower back.

"If you're older and out of shape, Zumba can be a setup for injury," he said. "And no matter what  your age, you have to be sure you are doing the steps properly."

Consumer Reports' medical adviser  Dr. Orly Avizur said to avoid risks don not wear shoes that grip the floor. Instead, get shoes that pivot, like dance shoes.

Also, find a high-quality instructor and avoid hard  tile or concrete floors.


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