ROM Disability

saraevelyn21

I have Erb's Palsy in my left shoulder/arm that leaves me with a severe lack of ROM - I can lift my arm straight out, horizontal & even with my shoulder, but my elbow will not straighten so my forearm is always near my body (almost a more narrow '<' shape, the point being my elbow)

I also cannot lift that elbow above my shoulder without using my right arm to pull it as straight as it will go (never fully extended)

I am not able to put weight on that side (push-ups, planks, etc..) and when I do a curl, the left arm will not go straight back up, it comes in towards my chest (like saying the pledge, only opposite, lol)

SOOOO - I'm worried that my arms will be disproportionate! Is that crazy?? Does anyone have any experience with anything similar to this?

Erb's Palsy is not treatable, I can work on flexibility and expanding my ROM but doing that won't ever give me a full range of motion.

I would like to eventually see a physical therapist, but I'm currently working part time at min wage with no benefits and not likely to get any in the near (or far) future.

pollypocket1021

See if there is a physical therapy school nearby. There are students where I live who will see people for free. They are with instructors, so it's still very worthwhile. If that is an option, you'll still need an order from a doctor.

But most likely, yes, the left side will be somewhat smaller than the right. Everyone is asymmetrical. Most people won't notice unless you point it out to them.

saraevelyn21

Ah, that's a great idea! Thank you!