Dancing Does Not Prevent Epileptic Seizures
There is no evidence that dancing prevents epileptic seizures; in fact, dancing can be a manifestation of seizure activity itself rather than a preventive measure.
Understanding the Relationship Between Physical Activity and Epilepsy
Exercise and Seizure Control
- Physical activity, including dance, does not prevent epilepsy from developing or prevent seizures in people who already have epilepsy 1
- Regular exercise may paradoxically improve seizure control in some patients with well-controlled epilepsy through reduced epileptiform discharges following exercise, but this is not prevention—it is potential improvement in existing disease 2
- Studies show that physical activity can decrease seizure frequency in people with epilepsy, but this represents management of existing epilepsy, not prevention of the condition 1
Dancing as Seizure Semiology
- Dancing can actually be an ictal (during seizure) or post-ictal (after seizure) phenomenon rather than a preventive activity 3, 4
- Complex, rhythmical, and sequential movements resembling dancing have been documented as seizure manifestations originating from temporal and frontal lobe epilepsy 3, 4
- This unusual seizure semiology has been confirmed through simultaneous video and electroencephalography recordings 3
Safety Considerations for Physical Activity in Epilepsy
For Patients with Existing Epilepsy
- Patients with poorly controlled epilepsy who wish to exercise should have individualized exercise intensity, type, and location to minimize injury risk from potential seizures 2
- The majority of physical activities are safe for people with epilepsy to participate in with adequate seizure control, close monitoring of medications, and preparation of family or trainers 1
- Patients with good seizure control can participate in both contact and non-contact sports without harmfully affecting seizure frequency 1
Emergency Response During Physical Activity
- If a seizure occurs during physical activity, activate EMS for first-time seizures, seizures lasting >5 minutes, multiple seizures without return to baseline, or seizures with traumatic injuries 2, 5
- Help the person safely to the ground, place them in the recovery position on their side, and clear the surrounding area 2, 5
- Stay with the person throughout the seizure and postictal period 2, 5
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not assume that any form of physical activity, including dancing, prevents epilepsy or seizures 1
- Exercise-induced seizures, while rare, do occur and represent a risk rather than a preventive benefit 1
- The benefits of exercise in epilepsy relate to improved cardiovascular and psychological health, and potentially better seizure control in those already diagnosed—not prevention of the disease 1