United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

It was my experience that emotional issues caused just as much pain as my untreated LOBPI and over-use of my "good" limbs too. Once I received help to face and start healing those some of the pain i lived with but ignored most of my life started to be relieved. Massages have been recommended by other adults. FYI, most massage schools give lo fees or none for students...they are supervised.

Carolyn J age 71

BUMPING UP for newcomers to our UBPN Family.
Carolyn J
OBPI/74

I met a guy @ Hastings Law in S.F. abou 20 yrs ago who noticed my ep rt arm and showed me his. Explained that he worked in a lumber yard most of his adult life, and went back to school to become a paralegal after being macho and trying his best to look like the next guy in the lumber yard; consequently, wearing out his left (good) arm; also reminded me to be carefull so it didn't happen to me as well; so here it is 20 yrs later, and within the last 4 yrs I've had carpal tunnel release on my good hand, 3 cortisone on my elbow, at least 1 on my soulder; as far as exercise I work out with light dumbells MWF five min a day, and try to swim the same MWF. Pain some, depression sure, but I'm 51 now, and I can't afford to be depressed anymore; I need to enjoy the rest of my life, I'm greatfull I have two eyes, two legs, a voice, hearing, and I have to put a smile on my face when I wake up in the a.m. then the rest follows. Believe me it hasn't always been this way, but I don't want rely on my wife to go to the store all of the time, when I can go and get a little exercise doing it and maybe meet someone else that needs more help than me. It took me a long time to find that perspective, and I don't expect everone to be cured, and I'm not cured by any means, but I try to make the best of it when I wake up, and that sets the tone for the rest of the day. Could be worse. Oh I still have anxiety walking in public everyday through the parking lot to get my groceries, but I don't experiece any when I leave store with bags in hand, or my hands on the shopping cart.

Thanks for sharing this Rod. For me there is not any cure, but more a matter of vigilence ,counseling and a mild medication keeps "wraps" on my depression pain and anxieties because I let it go on too long in the past before getting the help above mentioned I needed. I truly believe, NOW,these are our Secondary Injuries spoken of in the "Medical Resources for Adults" Link in an Article there and why we have "life-long" Medical Issues. Depression and Anxiety has physical pain attached to them and over time, add stress, and there is the mix.Vigilence and Perserverance are my constant companions.
Thanks again, Rod, and Welcome to our UBPI Family if I haven't all ready welcomed you....I now forget some things
Carolyn J
LOBPI/'74

Thanks Carolyn, I'm glad I found this site!