Maura Higgins Sustained Neck Injury During Rehearsals
The Dancing With The Stars contestant sought medical care following a fall during practice for her recent tango routine.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Dance
Maura Higgins, 35, suffered a neck injury during rehearsals for the reality competition show Dancing With The Stars. She received medical treatment from the show's physiotherapist, Dr. Gina Minchella, after collapsing to the floor.
Why it matters
Higgins had been managing worsening neck pain for several weeks prior to the incident occurring during her tango practice. Her participation highlights the physical toll and intensity required of contestants throughout the competition.
Maura Higgins and her partner Mark Ballas earned 33 out of a possible 40 points for their routine. This score placed them second on the leaderboard, trailing behind the 36 points achieved by two other competing pairs.
The players
Maura Higgins
She is a 35-year-old television personality and contestant on the current season of Dancing With The Stars.
Mark Ballas
He is a professional dancer and the partner of Maura Higgins on the competition series.
Dr. Gina Minchella
She serves as the professional physiotherapist for the Dancing With The Stars production team.
The details
Higgins fell to the floor while clutching her neck during a tango rehearsal, prompting immediate intervention from her partner, Mark Ballas, and medical staff. Following the injury, she successfully performed on the show's Super Bowl Night episode.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: The episode featuring the rehearsal footage and performance aired on Tuesday night.
Industry Dynamics
This incident underscores the high-stakes nature of reality dance competitions where performers balance rigorous physical training with television production schedules. Such challenges are consistent with the broader pressures faced by celebrity contestants in high-production entertainment franchises.
Fans can continue to watch Higgins compete throughout the remainder of the season as long as she is cleared for performance. Viewers should monitor upcoming episodes for any changes to her standing on the show due to the reported injury.
The takeaway
Contestants on reality series often manage significant physical strain while performing under public scrutiny. Viewers may gain a greater appreciation for the endurance required to participate in televised dance competitions.
Further reading
For more updates on professional and competitive performances, visit the Dance section.
