Patient’s Age: 63 years old
Admission Date: 09/14/20
Admitted From: Joe DiMaggio Memorial Hospital
Discharge Date: 10/20/20
Discharged To: Home
Length of Stay: 36 days
Reason for Stay: Paralysis due to brachial plexus compressive neuropathy
How did this patient hear about The Encore: Case Manager at Joe DiMaggio Memorial Hospital
Details of experience:
Mr. Brian Baker, a gentleman working in the field of construction, had recently undergone surgery for atrial fibrillation (A-fib). During this surgery, his arms were above his head for over four hours. As an unfortunate result, this caused Brian complete paralysis in his left arm and intense weakness in his right arm. It was then determined that Brian would require occupational therapy. He and his family did their research and decided that Brian should receive his care at The Encore.
Brian was understandably uncertain as he stated, “I thought I was going to be like this for the rest of my life. I was crying in the hospital.” He was then admitted to The Encore on September 14, 2020. After evaluation, his therapists were concerned about how much progress they’d be able to make, based on the uncertainty of nerve regeneration. Nevertheless, they got straight to work with him. His right side had poor motor control and he could not feed himself.
The first thing his therapist did with him was electrical stimulation to both plexus (nerve branch) along with reeducation exercises. They continued this for a few days. As a result, he had increased strength in functional movement in his right arm.
As time went on, Brian started to slowly progress more and more. Only a short time later, his therapist had him lifting 2 lb dumbbells with his right arm while with his left side, he was able to partially open and close his hand.
A week after this, Brian was able to feed himself with his right arm and increased ability to dress himself. He was able to handle toiletries and perform hygiene needs, all on his own! With his left hand, he was able to move his fingers and move his hand up to his chest, as well as move his shoulders with assistive devices to reduce gravity.
Brian was discharged home on October 20, 2020. He recently shared his continued gratitude and progress with the team as he stated, “My arms did not work. I could barely move them. I could hardly function. I could not even brush my teeth or comb my hair. Now, I can do everything with my right arm. I can drive my truck and can go to work. My left arm is still progressing. It is a miracle that I got better! I loved my therapists Norma, Carol, and Eric. They were always happy and interested in helping me. We would talk and laugh together. Everyone at the building had an upbeat attitude. The housekeepers, the activity girls, & the nursing staff were so friendly and pleasant. They were so accommodating. You guys got a good place there!”
We hope to continue hearing of Brian’s incredible progress!