United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Recently had a routine mamogram and now suffer from BP. Was diagnosed by a Physiotherapist after being told by a physician that it was probably tendonitis and definately NOT caused by the mamogram. Am slowly getting better with excercises and stretches recommended by my Physio. Have also been treated by Chiropractor and Reflexologist which have also helped. Anyone else have a similar experience?

Angie

That does not sound right at all. I am not sure how you get a brachial plexus injury from a mammogram. I would go see a physician and get properly diagnosed. A Physiotherapist is not qualified to diagnose a brachial plexus injury.

-Rich

Rich,
I could see a BPI being caused by a mammogram. Those things hurt. They tug at places that aren't supposed to be tugged at. I Iknow for a fact my shoulder hurt for a week after my routine mammogram. GAYLE

Gayle

My point is that Angie should seek an opinion from a physician rather than a physiotherapist. Whether a not a mammogram could cause a BP injury can be best diagnosed by a doctor. My personal experience indicates Brachial Plexus injuries in adult are the result of some sort of blunt force trauma.

-Rich

Hey Angie,
I've never had a mamogram, but if you are in a weird position and they are pulling on you, I could see how that could happen. My injury was caused by the position I was in for a c-section and from straining my neck during that time to see my new daughter. It is a rare cause, but it happens. It also could be that you have a more narrow passage way for your nerves then most people, so that could explain why it may have happened to you but doesn't happen to others that have the same procedure. At least that is what I was told. I would seek a physician that can diagnose you properly. If you have a BPI, you have a long road to recovery. My injury was mild compared to most and I had about 1-1/2 years of terrible pain and weakness issues and I'm still not 100% in my injured arm. If you don't live in an area that has a doctor that specializes in BP injuries, check into a sports doctor. I went to a very well known neck/back orthopedic sports doctor and that is how I was diagnosed. He has treated a lot of BPI because it happens in football quite often. The regular doctors I saw before that had no idea what was wrong.
I truly hope you find some answers!!
Michelle

Thank you to all who have replied. I realize that this is an unusual way to have a BPI but nonetheless, it is the case. I should describe my symptoms: extreme pain in my left arm starting at my shoulder and extending down into my hand; The pain has mostly subsided and now experience loss of sensation and numbness in my hand. I have little strength in my grip or finger strength. Makes it quite difficult to do my job, but I am managing. My Physiotherapist stated that I should heal and recover most of my mobility and feeling, but it will take time. How much time is unknown. Could last months or years. I am continuing to do my exercises religiously and see my Chiropracter as well. The reflexologist really helped to alleviate my initial pain and discomfort and I may see her again if the pain recurs. In response to seeing a physician to be properly diagnosed: I saw two different doctors - first one told me that I had tendonitis and to rest my arm in a sling and take anti-inflammatory meds; the second (my family doctor) agreed with the physiotherapist about my diagnosis. Just thought that I'd give a little more detail.

I'd suggest a neurologist, anything to do with nerves/nerve damage is their domain of expertise.
Good luck
Marieke