Worried about work due to ongoing problems with ulner nerves in both arms

HJ23
HJ23 Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
edited June 2023 in Talk about your impairment
Over the last 3-4 months I've experienced pain in my arms which has been brought on by my desk job. I work at home and have been using a laptop for ages. This has left me with an issue with my ulner nerve in both arms caused by repetitive strain likely due to prolonged pressure on my elbows- I'm currently waiting for tests to see the extent of the issue. 

I've been off sick from work for a few weeks as it was making the pain so bad. I've tried to phase back into week and it's caused the pain to flair up instantly. I struggle with certain daily tasks and can manage to do some activities. My employer has installed some voice software but i still need to type for some things and also click the mouse. I've got ergonomic equipment but it doesn't seem to help me at this stage. 

I'm also having physiotherapy but yet to see the benefits. I'm going to run out of sick pay in the coming weeks and also have a family to think about including a young child. There are bills I simply wont be able to afford if I can't work. I've tried strong pain relief medication but I get bad side affects. I've tried other types of pain relief that can sometimes take a slight edge off but as soon as I try work it causes the pain to instantly resurface. This whole experience is getting more difficult by the day and I'm really struggling to be positive.

I feel like this could go on for months and I'm not going to be able to cope if so

Comments

  • Hannah_Alumni
    Hannah_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,866 Championing
    Hello @HJ23

    Welcome to the community! :) 

    I'm sorry to hear that you are in such pain. You mentioned going to physiotherapy and strong pain relief. Can I ask, are you getting that support with the help of a GP?
  • HJ23
    HJ23 Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
    Thanks Hannah, yeh I've seen the GP 3 times so far and seen a specialist but need to wait for tests. 
  • Hannah_Alumni
    Hannah_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,866 Championing
    @hj23 Hopefully the tests will give you more answers. I would encourage you to go back to the GP if you feel the pain relief isn't working. I'd also speak to your boss again to see if there is anything they could do. For example, would reduced hours or even taking more breaks in the day work better for you?

    I'd also consider looking at benefits and financial support to help whilst you are working everything out with your health. 

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