United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Hi everyone,

Went back to Dr. today. Six weeks since op. He was pleased with how things are going. Checked out my scar and how I was doing exercises with my arm. Enquired about the pain factor and told me to keep in touch with pain management re this subject. I am due to go back in three months time. He has done quote "everything he can at this stage, it is now up to me to get on with things". It is a wait and see game in relation to any results from surgery. Now the question is how do I get on with things.

I have accepted my injury, but my question is where do I start now. What can I do with myself while the "healing process" begins. I am at a loss as to what studying or rehabilitation programmes I can do and how I can keep myself busy until I can get fully mobile again. Anyone out there have any suggestions for me.

Unfortunately my mum and dad both have to work, so am on my own four days of the week. There is only so much television, computer games etc that you can bare. I intend to do some courses but these dont start in Australia until January 2005. In the meantime I have 3 or so months to fill.

Would be interested in some ideas or something to help me get me "get on with things".

Regards Michael

Hin /michael,

Use the time. Get in shape and exercise. This injury is lot easier to manage when you are in good general health. Find out what you can and cannot do.

Prepare for the courses. Set a reading/learning schedule so they do not come as big suprise in January. You are going have enough to adjusting to the new schedule.

Get out of the house. Sitting there with only your head and the injury takes you places that you don't to go. Just ask Ronin.

Good luck!

Henry

Michael,
Henry is right. The biggest battle is between your ears. I don't know the extent of your injuries, but when the Doc says it's okay start an exercise program. Over on the TBPI site Yeti shared his information re pain management he learned at the clinic. Check it out. I have used exercise to help control pain now for about 7 months. Try swimming with a good mask and snorkel if you have access to a pool. I swim better now than before I lost use of my left arm. Cheers....Karl....

Walking is great too, and you can consciously straighten up as you do it, save yourself getting hunched over protecting that arm-I still have to make myself not hunch even 24 yrs after my injury. I gradually got the confidence to go without a sling (on doctors orders) and eventually let the arm swing naturally as I walked, it's amazing how 'normal swinging the arm as you walk makes you feel!
Maybe look on this as an unexpected holiday, plan your courses from January and enjoy the glorious Australian spring and summer :0)
Jen NZ