United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Hello all..

I suffered from BPI (complete paralysis of my left-arm)followin a RTA in October.
Frankly telling, I am so depressed at losing the arm.
The doctors over here have done neurotisation and hoping that I will be able to gain control over my shoulder and move my elbow over a period of time.

I wanted to know if anyone has undergone the same thing. And, I would be glad to get some useful tips on how to cope with the same.

Is there any specific time frame for the injury to recover??

Thanks,
Binoj

Hi Binoj,

Welcome to the boards. Believe me, the depression you feel is part of the process - because it is a very real loss.

The timeframe before seeing muscle innervation depends on the distance the nerve needs to grow to connect with the muscle. Since nerves grow ~1 inch per month, it might take months - or even over a year. Your surgeon can tell you how far he/she was able to get the nerve transferred & you can get an idea of what to expect.

In the meantime, if you aren't already, you may want to consider getting an electrical stimulation (e-stim) unit. This sends a current to the muscle which can help keep it going until the nerve gets to it. Not all doctors support it but ours does, and it certainly can't hurt.

Keep asking questions, & take care,

Ellen

Hi Ellen,

Thanks for the kind response.

The doc's have told that it will take a minimum of 6-9 months on an average.
I am just too worried about the wrist and finger movements. All the doc's are talking is about the arm control and elbow movement.

Is there any case wherein the patient has got movement to the wrist n fingers?

Thanks,
Binoj