<p>I am a classically trained ballet dancer who recently decided to do musical theatre, and I consider dance to be my biggest strength out of acting, singing, and dancing. I have been unable to dance for 9 weeks now and I am not seeing a lot of progress recovery-wise. I am seeing a chiropractor and a physical therapist but I am not sure if I will be able to dance in time for my unified auditions in Chicago. If I am unable to dance, what should I do?</p>
<p>I am so sorry about your back. Are you not able to dance at all? Many of the auditions (my D reports) are not very difficult for a trained dancer; can you manage an easy barre and some simple jazz combos? Your resume will also show your training and experience. Mommafrog’s D last year (look around here on CC) had an injured foot and still got accepted into schools with great dance programs. I hope you are better soon!!
(See Mommafrog at recent “ankle injury” thread. Her daughter had a boot so the injury was obvious. Perhaps MFrog or another one here can tell you if you’d need to speak to someone to let them know you are having to take it easy due to the back.)</p>
<p>If you have been out for 9 weeks with no progress and think you may have a serious back injury you need to see an orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in spine (if you haven’t already done so) While chiropractors and physical therapists are important parts of the diagnosis and treatment of back injuries, you may need a higher level of expertise at this point.</p>