Breakdancers Warned Against Headspinning After Surgery for Rare Tumor

Breakdancers are being cautioned to avoid headspinning following a case where a dancer developed a cone-shaped lump on his head due to years of extensive practice. This benign tumor, dubbed a “breakdance bulge,” was over an inch thick, according to a report published in the British Medical Journal.

The condition arises from repeated friction between the scalp and the floor, combined with pressure exerted by the dancer’s body during headspins. The unnamed dancer from Denmark had trained rigorously, practicing five times a week and spending up to seven minutes at a time in headspin. He initially wore a hat to conceal the bulge but continued spinning despite the “protuberance” growing over 19 years of breakdancing.

In the last five years, the lump became increasingly painful. By the time he sought medical attention in his thirties, doctors at Copenhagen University Hospital had to rule out other serious conditions, including cancer, before diagnosing him with a “headspin hole.”

This condition typically begins with hair loss but can develop into a significant lump. Dr. Christian Baastrup Sondergaard, one of the authors of the report published in BMJ Case Reports, emphasized that the study does not entirely discourage headspinning. However, he advised breakdancers noticing early signs of a bulge to reduce or avoid headspins, as continuing could exacerbate the condition.

Sondergaard noted, “Although this is a rare condition unique to breakdancers, the successful surgical treatment in this case demonstrates that it is a viable option for symptom relief.” Prior to this case, only one other instance of a similar condition had been reported, highlighting the need for further research into breakdancing-related injuries.

The dancer expressed relief after his surgery, stating, “It is now possible for me to go out in public without a cap… which is, of course, a very nice feeling.” He reported receiving a lot of positive feedback, with people noting that his head now “looks completely normal.”

The report underscores that breakdancing involves “a range of complex and physically demanding techniques,” which makes dancers particularly susceptible to various injuries. As the popularity of breakdancing grows, particularly with its inclusion in international competitions, the community is encouraged to take these health warnings seriously.

In summary, while headspinning is a foundational move in breakdancing, the potential for developing injuries like the breakdance bulge underscores the importance of monitoring one’s health. Dancers should remain vigilant about any physical changes and consult medical professionals if they notice symptoms that could indicate a more serious issue. The case serves as a reminder that while passion for dance can lead to impressive skills, it should not come at the expense of one’s health.