United Brachial Plexus Network

Hi all, It's been a while since I've visited this board and I wanted to share a new treatment I've been using for the neuro pain. I've been seeing a chiropractor for a while now for adjustment, massage, acupuncture, and other pain management techniques, which has helped as long as I visit regularly....

“I think within five years we could have an implant which is ready for people. And what is exciting about this technology is that it would not just be useful for people with spinal injuries but also people who have suffered from a stroke and have impaired movement due to that. There are some technic...

Solid work Dan! I got into paratri beginning last year, where I got to meet champion arm athletes like Joel and Robin. One thing that paratri gave me was exposure to the para community in general, where things really get put into perspective. Sure swimming, cycling, and running with 1 arm is pretty ...

Hi Suzanne, The team at Mayo has repeatedly offered wrist/thumb fusion to me but I have always turned it down. I use one of Dan's athletic slings for running and other sports (see message board thread for Athletic Arm Sling), and it actually really helps to be able to tuck my hand and palm into a fl...

Hi Russian,

I have not but I'd definitely like to hear about your experience and result if you are having it done this month!

MW

I know a lot of us struggle to get back to being active with our injuries, and cycling is one of those activities you have to re-learn. If you think biking with 1 arm is tough, check out this guy - 1 arm and 1 leg:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VgW2I7oEZs

I lost all function and most muscle below my shoulder. I had surgery at Mayo where they did a free muscle transfer from my leg and activated with my spinal accessory nerve. The end result was that I regained elbow function - totally worth it. I did have to wear a ridiculous cast for a few weeks thou...

Hi Francisco, I agree with Lisa that amitrptyline (elavil) is a good option. The first few times you take it, you're absolutely knocked out (I think I slept 13 hours the first night). The pain relief seems to last awhile too. Also, it's cheap. Places like Target and Walmart usually have it on their ...

Hi Francisco, I second what Dan says about getting back to what you liked doing before you got hurt. I was a runner and cyclist, and Dan was responsible for designing an arm sling that allowed me to return to the sports I enjoyed. It's true that you're never the same, but I get a lot of kudos from p...

Hi Teri and Duane, I've been injured for over 3 years and I still have that crushing pain that you describe. What I've learned from the people here is that the pain is different for everyone- some folks don't even need meds after a bit, while others like me are on a regimen of meds. I personally tak...