Taking breaks from pole dancing (or any other regular exercise!) is one of the most frustrating things I've ever done, and it's not over for me yet!
I used to take extended "breaks" from pole dancing due to lack of confidence and motivation, and while that was sort of intellectually frustrating, I didn't suffer too badly. I never progressed far from a few spins and one or two holds, so I never saw that much loss, either.
However, recently, I've had injuries in my knee, my bicep, and now my wrist, and they've all been very frustrating! I had just started to really work on tougher moves, and though my injuries weren't pole-caused, they were aggravated by my dancing. So, it was break time.
I have to say, taking a break from dancing because of your health is also a great thing. You are listening to your body, and understanding that something has gone wrong and must be fixed. This is really difficult, and really important! So, make sure you give yourself the praise you deserve for being sensitive to your own needs.
I find (especially recently) that I tend to get depressed when taking breaks, because my brain craves the endorphins I am no longer getting through exercise. I tend to feel weak, useless, and very sad. I sit on the couch and do nothing all day, and just think about how much I would rather be doing ANYTHING else! This is very much not recommended!
Best advice I can give is, as long as your health professionals agree, keep moving within your comfort level. So, go for walks, or take up some gentle yoga if you can. Go for swims at the pool, or a bike ride once a week. Keep moving! You'll still feel good, and still be working your body a little bit, keeping yourself feeling healthy, and feeling like you aren't totally going to flop over.
As for losing strength, you'd be surprised at how quickly it all comes back. Your skills, especially the ones you no longer think about "training" but just use during a dancing segment, will be easily recalled. Your strength, though initially lacking, will return fairly quickly- As long as you don't push yourself too hard! I'm going to say that again: When you get back, don't push yourself too hard! You don't want to get re-injured because you were impatient to get back to where you used to be. Take yourself at the state where you are when you get back, and try not to dwell on the past, of what was or could have been. These are recipes for frustration and possible injury!
Your first workout when you come back will probably suck. I know mine always did! You'll maybe sweat a lot and feel sore, and sluggish, like you've got a lot less strength and energy... but your energy will come back for your next workout! The body (and mind) will fight you for that first workout, but afterward, it gets easier.
Best of luck! Heal quickly, and remember that your journey is your own :)
