Breakdancers have been cautioned about a potential health risk linked to headspinning, following a case where a dancer developed a cone-shaped lump on his head after years of practice.
The benign tumor, nicknamed the “breakdance bulge,” was surgically removed after it grew over time, according to a report published in BMJ Case Reports.
The lump, which measured over an inch thick, formed as a result of prolonged friction between the scalp and the floor, combined with the pressure of the dancer’s body during headspins. The unnamed dancer from Denmark had practiced breakdancing five times a week for 19 years, including sessions with up to seven minutes of headspinning. Despite noticing the lump’s growth, he continued training and only sought medical attention after it became painful and difficult to hide.
Doctors at Copenhagen University Hospital ruled out more serious conditions, such as cancer, and diagnosed the “headspin hole” after an MRI scan. The case report highlights the potential for such injuries among breakdancers, but also demonstrates that surgery is an effective option for treatment.
Dr. Christian Baastrup Sondergaard, one of the authors of the study, advised that breakdancers who notice early signs of the condition should consider reducing or avoiding headspins to prevent further complications. While this is a rare injury, it underscores the physical demands of breakdancing, which can also lead to sprains, strains, and other injuries.
The Danish dancer, who had worn a cap to conceal the lump, expressed relief after the surgery, noting that he was happy with the results and the positive feedback on his improved appearance. Although only two such cases have been reported, doctors suggest more research is needed to better understand the potential health risks associated with breakdancing.
With input from the Daily Mail, BBC, and the Guardian.
