United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I am a teen with ROBPI. I may need surgery on my knees. I am wondering if anyone with a BPI has ever had to use crutches and had success... or is there another option. Right now, the only other option we have been able to find is using a walker while I'm healing.

How much function do you have in your BPI arm and hand?

I use forearm crutches when needed and not the ones that go under your armpit.

the specialist who is doing your knee surgery - do they have an in-house therapy team? (and if not, then go to the hospital's therapy department) I think they should work with you, in advance of your surgery, to find the tool that will work best for you. It might be that you have to be in a wheelchair for a bit.

good luck with your surgery -- please update us and let us know what you had to do afterwards...

-francine

I broke a bone in my foot when I was in my thirties and for the first time tried crutches. I was not able to use them so switched to a walker and could not use it either. I just don't have enough strength.
Good Luck

Kath robpi/adult

My 3 year old daughter uses a walker because she also has CP as well as her robpi. We have actually been really happy with how much using the walker has strengthened her right arm. Before she got her walker she couldn't support herself in a crawling position with her right arm and after 3 months using her walker she can.

I'm a teen with ROBPI too! I've never actually had to use crutches for surgeries or any broken bones. But my friends have had crutches and I've messed around with them. I can use them without alot of difficulty. It just depends how how bad your BPI is. You could try strengthening your arm so you can use them. If you can't do that I guess the only option would be a wheelchair.
Sarah/13/ROBPI