United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc. • first appointment w/BP doc
Page 1 of 1

first appointment w/BP doc

Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2004 12:02 pm
by kasaint
Awhile ago I posted for the first time after finding out that my now 7.5 mo old has a BP injury, caused at birth. They have been working with him physical therapy, not sending him anywhere and I not pushing it as there is so much going on with him as it is. However, he is now almost 8 months (found out about the BPI at 6 mo) and he still is having problems with his arm. So today they told me that he should be seen by a BP doctor in Minneapolis.
My question is what exactly will this doctor do? What can I expect from yet another doctor... what do I need to ask, be prepared for?

Thanks in advance

Kim

Re: first appointment w/BP doc

Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2004 7:19 pm
by Francine_Litz
they will see what your child can do functionally and then talk to you about it

at another appointment they may want to do an MRI and/or an EMG and/or a nerve conduction test
although they will probably want to sedate for that and you will need advanced notice for this....

here's a set of questions that may be helpful...
http://www.injurednewborn.com/maia/drquestions.html

btw - you wrote "they told me that he should be seen by a bpi doc in minn.." just want to let you know that YOU can choose the bpi specialist you want to go to... there are many across the nation - do your research - there is a medical resources listing located on the homepage of this site - read the questionaires that the doctors filled out. Traveling is easy - there is free medical airfare available.

I think one of the things we all have learned from having a child injured is that we need to take the lead and be assertive. We need to educate ourself and advocate for our children. Don't stop searching until you find someone you feel you have a match with.

good luck,
francine