United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I suffered a BPI injury to my right arm over 2 months ago in an offroad motorcycle accident. I didn't break any bones, but suffered a concussion as well. I have been seeing an orthopedic Dr. since the accident, but progress is very slow. I've had an MRI and nerve conduction study done, but I am waiting for insurance to approve a 2nd MRI. I have also been seeing a physical therapist once a week.

Progress has been slow - I can move my arm about half way up in front and to the side, but it is still painful and very tight.

I am also taking an anti-inflammatory prescription and a pill for nerve pain.

This is a terrible injury, by far the worst I've had. Does anyone recommend anything else?

I've seen a chiropractor but wasn't happy with the results. I am having trouble finding a BPI specialist in the area that is approved through my insurance company.

Should I stick with the Orthopedic Dr. or try to move to a Neurologist?

Just looking for any advice from others who have been here before.

Thank you!

Hi Eric
Where do you live? Once you post that a TON of people will be able to help-and we would love to do anything we can.

Kath

Hi Eric,

For the pain you could try Amytriptillin. 25 mg 2X daily. It is a little yellow pill. Take one in the morning 1 at night. This pill is usually prescribed for as an anti depressant, but has been proven very effective with aiding nerve pain in the early days. It makes you feel a bit drowsy, but helps with the Neurological Injury..
See what your Dr. thinks...it worked for me and it helps to not take the heavy narcotics that kill the liver.

My thoughts are...see a Neurologist...you would not take your car to the denist for repair...Otho Dr's are helpful...but they lack the knowledge where this injury is concerned. You must be proactive since you have limitations with your health insurance. As if there is a surgery needed for repair, time is always of the essence. Usually, 6 months post injury they recommend, intervention with some sort of nerve, muscle, graph or transfer.
So sitting idle waiting can change the outcome of overall healing.

Hope some of this info helps...

With Peace & Light
Mardelle

Thanks Carolyn J Sweet Words..
I just take one day at a time...
You are a true Warrior with the length of time you have had your injury...I can only imagine how life has been for you. We are here now for one another
I am grateful daily for all of you...all of your courage to share your truth..
For me...I'm honoured and feel very priviledged to speak with all of you...
The road is long...but much brighter when we all journey together
Always...
Mardelle

...AMEN Mardelle, AMEN. WE are ALL in this together and that really helps alot...no more I am alone.
Carolyn J

Thanks for the advice. I live in the Atlanta area.

Eric
3 of 4 doctors at Mayo Clinic that are BPI specialists are Ortho doctors. The last doctor I went to see and the only that could help me was Dr Elhassan,
http://www.mayoclinic.org/bio/13315528.html
He specializes in BPI.
I know you are in GA but I just wanted to clear that up for you.

Good luck
Kathleen