I’m not sure if anyone can help with this query? I had a lumpectomy and some lymph nodes removed 2 weeks ago tomorrow and on the whole recovery has been fine. However in the last week or so I’ve had a lot of pain and tightness on the inside of my arm. to touch it feels like it’s bruised but there’s no sign of a bruise on the skin. The breast cancer nurses said this is very common and will get better in time but I wondered if anyone else has experienced this? If so what have you done to ease the pain? It goes right from my armpit almost to my wrist I’ve tried massaging it gently but it’s really painful. I thought I was doing so well and this is starting to get me down. Thanks xx
Hi
I'm sorry to hear your concerns regarding your arm. I'm not sure I can relate to that but I'll give you my experiences, in case it helps you. Also, I feel the BCN could have been a bit more informative and reassuring, to be honest.
I had lumpectomy and 7 lymph nodes removed 9 yrs ago (followed by Radiotherapy) and, this year, I've had lumpectomy + 2 lymph nodes (opposite side)
The first time, 9 yrs ago, I remember my under-arm feeling sore, very much as if it were 'chapped', although nothing to see. That resolved itself after a few weeks. The same has occured this time too but is feeling better already - approx 4.5 weeks ago.
I do remember having 'Cording' after surgery 9yrs ago, which was very painful but I found massaging the tight 'cord' downwards, towards my hand, helped and eventually it went and, so far, I've not had any problem since.
Of course, many small nerves may be bruised, or even cut, which will mean they need to heal and that can give a variety of strange feelings, but will improve with time.
Other than that, I can't help. If you can relate to any of these issues, I hope my post helps you. If you are still concerned, I would suggest you ask what your symptoms relate to, ie a name, which may be more helpful to understand what you are experiencing
Wishing you all the best 
