United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I was wondering if other people have this issue. My BP arm is a lot fatter than the non-BP arm. I know that it doesn't get as much exercise but come on does it have to be so gross
I've gained some weight recently and I think it all went to my arm. None of my shirts fit anymore. I have to wear a size larger just for my flab. Can anyone else relate?
Just curious.
Thanks for you time.

My arm was always so much thinner it was really annoying when I was young. I have put on weight and it looks flabby... I also have some lympatic swelling in my forearm now but nothing major but it makes my arm look fat.
Kath

Like Kathleen, my ROBPI arm is also thinner than the unaffected arm due to lack of muscle. Could your swelling be caused by something else? I believe that damage to the lymph system from surgery or radiation therapy can cause fluid retention and swelling.

John P.

Like Kathleen & John, my LOBPI arm has always been thinner smaller & shorter than unafftected arm. Same for my whole left side, actually.
Carolyn J

Hi, I have the same problem. Everyone looks at me and says hey do you work out? My left arm is really huge (I'm a girl) I'm like "no, I don't workout this is natural." Little do they know my arm is as weak as a wet paper towel. I hate the fact that they can even notice the difference. I hate summer too. I can't where tank tops without a million questions. Don't worry you are not alone.

I've never had surgery or any therapy other than PT when I was young.

My arm is shorter by quite a bit, but it's been fatter my entire life. But I've been noticing it more lately since my shirts aren't fitting right.

Gee, for the first time since I found everyone I'm different. I knew I was special

Thanks for all your input.

I never had surgery either they only did PT... my arm is shorter and small in fact my entire right side is a bit smaller even my ear canal.

Kath

Hi!
My OBPI arm is not a lot fatter than my non-OBPI arm, but it is fatter, especially the upper arm. A sleave may fit fine on the non-OBPI arm but the other sleave might be tight.

Joanie

My arm is thinner and muscular. I do arm exercise (with the assistance of my left arm), you should try it!

My daughter's arm looked fatter but an MRI showed that it was swollen from water. We used TES (nighttime electrical stimulation) and the days we used it, the arm was smaller (it's used for circulation) and the days we didn't use it, her arm and fingers were swollen. I don't know if this is the situation with you but I thought I would share that.