United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

My arm and shoulder are really hurting lately. I know it's because it gets overused with the kids. It's making it harder and harder to hold the kids and with one kid with major reflux who wants to be held all the time that's a problem. Can anyone suggest some pain releif measures other than meds?

Christina


You will have to experiment and see what works for you. I have used Mineral Ice before going to bed also Ginger Oil rub to warm my arm.
Myofacial release from PT and Massage therapy weekly, the massage therapist was great and also did myofacial release and it helped.
We installed a hot tub almost two years ago. It was a big expense but WOW what a great pain therapy for me.
I found I was always begging my insurance for PT and it took so much energy and I was miserable with both arms.
Once the tub was in I began to use it for ROM and as an escape from the pain (in the tub I did not feel so miserable) I soon noticed I had less and less pain.
If it is possible to get to a warm water facility to keep doing ROM and release the tension in your shoulders from all the hard work it will help.

Babies do not want us to sit when they are having stomach spasms and this will be difficult on your arms and back until the baby is past this problem.
The only comfort the baby seems to get is from holding. I hope your husband is able to share some of the night crying ... that will give you some rest to care for your arms neck and shoulders.
You will always be busy with the children but this time will pass very quickly and you will have learned the compensations necessary to allow you to just enjoy your babies and once again not feel limited by our injury. This I know for sure. When I first became a grandmother almost 11 years ago I was amazed at how natural my motherly compensations came back to me. It was like riding a bike. But I also remember how I had to learn so many new ways of compensation as a new Mom. It was the first time in years that I had to think before I did something ... it is frustrating but you will get the hang of it quickly. You will also learn how to keep from injuring yourself if you pay attention to the things that could create a problem and allow others to help you.
We are quite good at adapting... LOL...
Kath

Sometimes, for pain, I will lay on the end of the bed, just as I did when I was in PT, and my husband will stretch my arm out doing exercises similar to what my PT did when I was able to get it. We have to do it probably once a week or so, but it does help a bit.

Dear "Kissy....",
Do you have your Handicapped Card yet for your car? It really helps sooo much.I only got mine last year and am amazed how much it saves me in lots of ways.
[I'm a slooow learner]~~Hugs,Carolyn J

Thanks ladies. I'm trying out some of yuor suggestions.

I don't have a handicap card. To my knowledge I don't qualify for anything like that.

Christina
I did not realize I did either until a PT suggested I get one because they did not want me to carry anything over the size/weight of a gallon of milk. I asked my doctor and at first she hesitated but the neurologist agreed that carrying bundles runs a risk of not only hurting my arms but my back from pushing the carts for shopping.

Apply for a temporary one - I doubt if your present doctor will help because he seems to think your injury is a minor inconvience... so wait until you can find a new doctor. Perhaps you should ask to see a pain specialist.

Kath

OK,Christine, the way you qualify for a Handicapped Card for your car is: on the application form which your MD has[all Dr.'s offices have them],the box to check is "Neurological___"; the 2nd word may differ from state to state. Your Dr.'s signature is what verifies that. It is a short simple form. You either send it in to Dept. Of Licensing, or take it there and get it right way. BPI is a neurological condition,you qualify. If you doubt this, it doesn't cost anything to apply for it. The worst to happen is a denial of it but I'll bet you a quarter that you will. Try it....hugs~Carolyn Jenkins

Oh Christine, Please let us know when you do get your Handicapped Card.~~Carolyn J

Just thinking of you and wondering how you are doing Christina... I hope the babies are feeling better and your arms are getting a little rest.

Kath