I am so happy that you are going to get an appointment.
Expect to be nervous! That is normal for the very first time you meet and "expert" on Erb's Palsy - OBPI.
I was so nervous I forgot all the questions I had.
Make a list of things that you really want to know.
There are no silly questions.
Michelle a few years ago I posted that I would hold things in my hand and not be aware that something was in my hand and could walk around for long periods of time with something in my hand and not be aware of it.
At the time several OBPI/adults were posting to the board -THEY ALL DID THE EXACT SAME THING- Many times parents have posted that the babies were looking for their toy's and they were right in the bpi hand... it finally made sense to me...
So by asking what I thought was a silly question - I got some real information...
1 - Ask about PT needs - how often - what type ....
2 - Ask about OT needs -
3 - Ask about restrictions - should you carry heavy objects for prolonged periods of time etc... and if you need to have any disability stickers for car etc... I know you are 16 but here in NY where I live teenages get to drive during the day to school and work...
4 - Ask if he has any information on the extent of the birth injury - he may be able to get a copy of your medical records and this will satisfy some questions you may have now and in the future...
5 - Find out if there are any special educational programs you are entitled to or disability pension to help cover the costs of specail equipment.
I was not aware of the policy on education for disabled persons when I was young and I could have had a complete college education in US if I had applied. I was not aware that I was considered disabled... so I never filed for anything.
Remember Mr Birch is considered to be a fine physician by all those who have mentioned his name on the boards over the years and I am sure that he will make you feel comfortable.... Just remind him of your limited knowledge on your birth injury and that he is the first specialist you are seeing....
Read the Awareness material on the Babies
under Information for Parents - that material applies to us.
http://ubpn.org/awareness/A2001Rnewparentguide.html
Glossary of Terms -
http://ubpn.org/awareness/A2001Rglossary.html
I know this sounds like homework but it is not... it is just learning about your own body and how it is effected by this injury.
Learning the Terms really helped me when I started to speak to doctors about this injury. When you become familiar with the terms you are better able to ask questions and understand the answers.
Some of the terms on the Glossary I had never heard until I was an adult... and I also had to learn them - but a better educated paitent is a happier one because you understand just exactly what the doctor is talking about - he does not have to waste time explaining all the terms and can spend better time on your exam and on creating a program for you to give you better use - less contracture's and less overuse on the healthy arm...
I hope this helps a little... and again I am so happy that you are getting a good evaluation.
Keep us posted as to your appointment date....
Kath