In this moving episode of the ABPT Physi-ed podcast, I spoke with Leanne English, founder of Mobilates, who also has EDS to explore the complexities of living with and treating chronic health conditions through the lens of a patient and community leader.Leanne shares her 12-year journey to a diagnosis of hEDS and POTS, detailing the emotional toll of being dismissed as a "heart-sink" patient and the profound concept of "life lost" during the search for answers. This conversation is a must-watch for both patients seeking empowerment and clinicians looking to deepen their biopsychosocial approach. We dive deep into why "just exercise" can be harmful without the right context, the freedom found in mobility aids, and how clinical curiosity can bridge the gap between evidence-based practice and lived experience.This episode is aimed at clinicians who want to understand how to better support their patients, and anyone suffering with a chronic condition or awaiting a diagnosis who wants to know what works for others with similar conditions.Key Topics in This Episode:The transition from a "heart-sink" patient to an empowered self-advocate.Practical strategies for managing flare-ups, including "self-care toolkits."The philosophy of Mobile Pilates: making exercise truly accessible.Why clinicians must see the "whole person" rather than just a symptom.Timestamps: 00:00 - The most impactful thing a professional can do: See the whole person 01:50 - Leanne’s journey: From childhood symptoms to hEDS & POTS diagnosis 06:37 - Reclaiming your voice: Moving from "heart-sink patient" to advocate 08:40 - Beyond the biomedical: Social prescribing and holistic care 11:08 - Co-designing your health: How to prepare for medical appointments 13:05 - The "just exercise" trap: Navigating energy-limiting illnesses 14:58 - Finding community: The cure for the loneliness of chronic illness 17:53 - Mobility aids as a tool for freedom, not a "step back" 21:28 - Managing flares: Grounding, breathing, and self-care kits 25:20 - Navigating "body grief" and the reality of life lost to illness 28:13 - Advice for clinicians: The power of curiosity over fear 31:13 - The diagnostic double-edged sword: Relief vs. frustration 35:19 - Mobile Pilates: Philosophy and inclusive movement 40:00 - Final thoughts: Three key takeaways for health and quality of lifeResources Mentioned:Mobilates: https://www.mobilates.com/Book: Living Well with a Chronic Illness by Grace QuantockBook: Body Grief by Jane MattingleyConnect with ABPT Physi-ed and to book a consultation: https://www.abptphysio.co.uk/Subscribe for more clinical insights and patient stories: Follow us on Instagram: @alexbloorphysioVisit our website: https://www.abptphysio.co.uk/#ChronicIllness #hEDS #POTS #Physiotherapy #PatientAdvocacy #Biopsychosocial #MobilePilates #ABPTPhysiedIf you found this episode helpful, please check out our other other episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4NwQ-sGRyu7n2TWFT_bd8KtLVfkWwxqM If you found this video helpful, please like and subscribe as this really helps our channel.Please note this video is intended as a teaching and learning resource for healthcare students or professionals, and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for clinical assessment or professional training. Please follow the guidance of your health professional or educators.