United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Hello, Everyone
My name is Kimberly and I am 32 years old. I was delivered with forceps and damage was done to both my arms to were I can not fully extend my arms, it is as if there is a lock on my elbow. I deal with pain in my arms almost on a daily basis. It is such a blessing to finally know that there are other people out there just like me and that there is help..I have an appointment in August with a doctor in Miami local to me... Has anyone with similiar restrictions had surgery out there.. I would love to hear from anyone and there results from surgery as well as PT?? how long is recovery??

Kim, welcome to the boards and what a wonderful age to be!! I am 32 also. My left arm was damaged at birth. It still doesn't straighten out either. I have surgery last Sept. in Houston with Dr. Nath. I live in Montana. And for many years, I too thought I was the only one with this injury. This is the best place to gain information and everyone here is wonderful!!! Feel free to e mail me at home and I can fill you in on everything there. And again...welcome. *S*

*S* thank you sooo much for your response and I will definetely take you up on the offer of emailing you at home ... Thanks for welcoming me in.. I have soo many questions for you. Thanks again, Kim

Hi Kim,

Glad you found the message boards. You've already heard my story via email. I expect you'll be hearing from others now!

Nancy

Hi Kim
Welcome to the message boards and I am so glad you know that you are not alone anymore.

I found the messages boards two weeks after I turned 60 and since that time I have learned so much and all the information has changed my life and my view on life with obpi.

I am right OBPI - my e-mail does not show up on this sign in but you can e-mail me with any questions at
KathM@ubpn.org

Kath,
Thanks for your reply. I will definitely be keeping in touch.

Hi:) I am Kimberly too! I too was delivered with forceps damaging my left arm. Dr killed me in the process. Thank God for the nurse who wouldn't give up on me when everyone else did!!!

I just had surgery here in Houston April 15 with Dr Shenaq. I spent 4 weeks in a splint with my arm straight out the the side like a 7. I still wear that splint at night.

I have started PT, and will be in it for 4 weeks 3x a week. Then I go back and Dr Shanaq will reassess me. He said there is impingment in my shoulder and we may have to go back in and shave off some of the bone.

Even before PT though, I could see improvement. I can straighten my arm, rotate it just past my thumb pointing straight up, lift my arm to almost 90 degrees....even put my arm behind my head.

It is great to have found this board!!! It is so wonderful knowing we are not alone:)

Kimberly:
As you can see there are a lot of OBPI adults. I found the boards about 3 years ago. The UBPN site is a great resource to learn about BPI, find medical experts, and to meet others with this injury.

John P. (64, ROBPI)

Hello Kimberly

Welcome and we're glad you've found us.

I am 51 and was a preemie baby that ended up with both arms being damaged. There are so many wonderful people here who know SO much. Please feel free to ask anything, as someone will no doubt have an answer.

Tina

Hi,
I am 32 also. I too was a preemie, born breech, got stuck and the doctor panicked and pulled. My left arm was damaged in the process.

Welcome to UBPN!

Marieke, 32 LOBPI