United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Anyone have older kiddos into gymnastics? My Jessica has a mostly recovered LOBPI and no one knows she has an injury (unless we tell them), but of course she still doesn't have external rotation and although she is quite strong, her left arm is a bit weaker than the right (she can left a 2 lb weight easily over her head many times with her right arm but can't do it once with her left).

She desperately wanted to join gymnastics. Because of what we've been told in the past, I told her no flipping on the bars. However, the whole gymnastics scene makes me nervous about her arm for the first time since she was 18 months old! I'm also worried about her self confidence when the kids can do things easily that she can't.

Any insight or experiences are greatly appreciated!

Go to youtube.com and type in the below info
Gymnast w/ Erb's Palsey, Brachial Plexus birth injury


what exactly is external rotation?

Im sure your daughter will do great at gymnastics, and it will probably even strengthen her arm!

i was injured as an adult. when i was at camp i asked dr kozin about the possibility of my osteoporosis getting worse because of lack of muscle use. he said to continue what i always could do. if it broke, it would heal, then he said to the parents DO NOT restrict your children in doing whatever they want to do because of the BPI. the injury rate on a PBI child is no greater than other children. if they are injured, it will heal just like any other person would. i hope she does great in gymnastics!! if she wants it bad enough, she will find a way to do it.

THank you for posting that,Joyce. Yes YES Please let your children do or try any SPORT they are attracted to try. Our lives should be as normal activity as possible . Please do not hold your children back.

"gramma" Carolyn J--"sometimes Bossy"
LOBPI/74