Welcome back to Dance Med Spotlight, hosted by Alyssa Arms. It’s the podcast where we dive into all things dance medicine! Today Dr. Leigh Alexander, a physical therapist and passionate Irish dancer, will shed light on the impact of Long COVID in the dance community. Leigh has been on a mission to raise awareness about this condition, including in our special population —dancers.

Our Guest: Dr. Leigh Alexander

Dr. Leigh Alexander is a physical therapist with experience at institutions like Cleveland Clinic and the University of Mount Union. With an impressive 28 years of Irish dance experience and someone living with Long COVID since 2020, Leigh brings a unique perspective to the conversation. As Chair of the Bylaws and Policies and Procedures Committee at OPTA and a member of various professional organizations such as APTA, APHPT, IADMS, and the Long COVID Alliance, Leigh is actively working with her profession and her community. Connect with Leigh on Twitter or Instagram.

Our Topic

1. What is Long COVID?: In this episode, we explore the multifaceted nature of Long COVID. Leigh breaks down the physical, psychological, and political aspects of the condition. Drawing from her personal experience, she highlights the feeling of isolation and how it often masks similarities to dance injuries. We also delve into the risk factors associated with Long COVID, providing valuable insights for dancers and healthcare professionals alike.

2. Dance and Long COVID—Staying on the Floor: Leigh emphasizes the importance of approaching dance and Long COVID with caution, debunking the notion of graded exercise. Instead, she shares valuable pacing techniques and strategies to help dancers manage their condition effectively. Furthermore, we discuss how the dance community can foster a more Long COVID-friendly environment, both at the professional and pre-professional/amateur levels.

3. Rehab Resources for Dancers and the General Populace: Discover a wealth of resources designed to support dancers and individuals grappling with Long COVID. Leigh highlights support provided by the Long COVID Physio and Long COVID Alliance. While acknowledging the current scarcity of resources within IADMS, we explore the potential for future developments to address the unique needs of dancers affected by Long COVID.

With estimates suggesting that Long COVID affects anywhere from 10% to 50% of COVID cases, it is crucial that we confront this condition head-on. Ignoring Long COVID is not the answer, especially when it comes to dancers who may be more susceptible. Leigh emphasizes the importance of avoiding graded exercise for dancers with Long COVID, as it can exacerbate their condition. Let’s ensure a safe and sustainable return to dance for all performers, without compromising their health and well-being.

Connect

Join us on Dance Med Spotlight as we continue to explore the intersection of dance and medicine, bringing you expert insights to support each dancer’s journey. Remember, knowledge is power, and together, we can create a healthier and more inclusive dance community.

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