United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Just wanted to say, I did therapy from when I was born until I was about 12 or 13... I hated it and it never seemed to do any good. I'm 21 now and have been searching around for something for me to do to improve my arm because I have been favoring it for so long that my non-affected arm was starting to be sore every night.

About a month ago, I started a program with a personal trainer and I have never felt stronger. He encourages me, understands when I am unable to do something and gives me something similar to work on so that i can work up to being able to do that stuff. I already feel like I have more motion in my arm, and as long as I am careful to use both and tell him how I am feeling, my non-affected arm always feels fine - the only thing sore are my muscles, which I ice and eventually they feel better and I feel even stronger.

Just thought I would share this with you all. I don't think the therapists were pushing me hard enough. They tried to gain more motion but not really strength... and strength training results in both.

Thoughts?

you have a great trainer you better keep him/her for as long as possible. glad to hear you are doing well! i use water therapy. i dont have a pool so i use the water in the bathtub or if i am at a place where there is no tub, i use the kitchen sink with a weight in my hand.

Bravo to you for trying something new!
I was not kept in therapy much after my surgery at age 6.
Did some on my own, on and off, through young adulthood.
Found a good PT who taught me first,some postural awareness pointers (keep that shoulder out of your ear!).
About 6 years ago, I discovered yoga and the strength and flexibility it has given me in both arms, shoulder and neck and spine is fantastic!
I do some modifying with a block to help "lengthen"my shorter L arm.
Strongy recommend this to all who are interested in trying.

I think all of these things are great! I was always in therapy but it was a family project.
Keep up the good work!

I say...anything that works....
Carolyn J
LOBPI/72

what is the block thing to lengthen???