United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Well, as the job continues on and I love it I have been in more and more pain. I started standing up most of the day doing my work because my desk is higher like a kitchen bar size (not a regular desk). I sit down to do lunches and yesterday I was only sitting down ( in a regular desk) for about 1/2 hour. My neck and shoulders started burning something terrible.
I don't know if I should try the TES unit on it again (it's such a pain in the neck...hahaha) or just deal with the pain. I know we are getting a cold spell started tomorrow and I'm definitely feeling it.

Any one have any ideas on what to do to alleviate the pain? I love my job but I'm hurting pretty good.

Thanks
Rachel (MT)

Rachel,
Have you tried those heating pads without the cord? I cannot remember what they are called, but they work so well for Brandon. You could also try those hand warmer packets that they sell in the sporting goods department at WAL-Mart !!! Brandon lives by those in the winter here in Illinois. They have saved us many times. The hand warmer gives you heat for about three hours.....but that is out in the cold.......inside they would last longer. I am so glad that you love your job, but am sad that it hurts you so much to do normal everyday activities. GAYLE

Rachel,
I suggest getting(1)A tall Bar Stool,preferably with a back rest to it to use at the high counter; (2)and/or take a "Stretching Break" every hour..just stretching briefly will help that back/shoulder pain & bring you some relief.
Oh...are you holding you back stiff at any time,unconsciously?
HUGS, & have a good Day & Week!
Carolyn J

Gayle,
I did use a warmer last night and it seemed to help a bit but I didn't bring it to work with me. I should we are supposed to have freezing temps by this weekend already. I'll have to invest in some warmers for sure. Thanks for the advice.

Carolyn,
I do sit at a tall bar stool...I think that may be the problem. *pout* I know I am not as good at sitting up straight either, but I do try.
*HUGS*
Thanks
Rachel

Rachel, maybe try Kinesio tape if you have an OT or PT that you see. Thats exactly the pain I was having before my tape. Now with tape, no pain like that any more! Massage and ultrasound treatment are amazing too!
I hope you find a solution to your pain very soon!!!
Hugs,
Amy 19 ROBPI from MN

Amy,
Do you have any information on the kinisio tape. My PT is very good about trying to help me out so if you have a website on where I could get some that would be great.
Thanks so much.
*HUGS*
Rachel

Rachel,

The last two issues of Outreach had articles written by OT's about the use of kinesio taping. They also listed websites. If you need another copy, let me know.

Nancy Birk
UBPN President

Rachel I used barrington equipment company (they have a web site but I will have to look for it) to go through because the tape was cheapest through them. I just did a search on kinesio tape to find companies to buy through. My tape cost $11 a roll plus shipping and handeling.
I could send you pictures of my tapeing if you want to see how mine is applied. My tapeing is an atypical taping to relax my upper trapezious.
I really dont have much info on it other than it worked amazing for me. I would see if you can get a massage to work out the knots first (even if its only from your husband.) Once the knots are out then the tape helps to keep your muscles relax so you don't get the pain.
Let me know if you want my pictures.

Hugs,
Amy 19 ROBPI from MN

Hey Rachel try looking in this web site barringtonequipment.com the tapes not cheap when you add shipping and handeling but to me, its a small price to pay to be pain free!


Message was edited by: hope16_05

Does your stool have a back on it? I know I need a seat with a back on it to help support my back and shoulder.