Pain after Mastectomy and lymph node clearance.

Hi,   I had an axillary node clearance over 3 weeks ago and wide excision clearance. After about the first week the back of my arm felt strange and heavy like a burning sensation really horrid my surgeon told me that’s nerve damage from surgery and to keep doing the excercises. Also felt tight when I straightened my arm at the inside of the elbow the surgeon explained to massage that area as that’s where the lymphatic system is. It lasted about a week and now my arm feels great still little funny sensation when touching back of my arm but hardly noticeable. I’m 47 but post mainly on the breast cancer group as there’s more activity and more people to answer/help you. 

Take care

Gail xxx

Gail,

Thank you so much for your reply that sounds exactly the same as my symptoms so it's good to know it's common and what to do about it.

I will give the massaging a go and hopefully that will make it ease a little. Really appreciate you coming back to me.

Hope you are keeping well xx

Hi, I just saw this and thought I’d repeat/ agree what Gail said. That feeling is normal, I had mastectomy at the beginning of March and went to see my breast care nurse 3 times to have it drained and whilst I was there she gave my arm a massage, which really helped me lift it and with the tingling sensations.

she said try and touch it lots. I try and rub some oil into everyday still just to warm it up before my exercises. 
it does get better! I’ve got a post it note on my wardrobe and raise it up a little every two days, I can reach higher.

good luck and keep up with the exercises x