Pain after full axial node clearance

Hi. It sounds like you are doing really well! It really is a big operation and recovery is painful. 
I really wish I hadn’t had to have it! I’m 5 weeks down the line today and have had one problem after another. Allergy, rash, infection and had to have fluid drained twice. I am getting more movement now and trying my best to do the exercises every day but, difficult when in pain. 
I feel like there is still an infection going on as breast area is red and hot to touch. Also very painful boob when going from lying in bed to getting up. I’m seeing the consultant and nurse today for pathology results so will get checked out again then
I’m scared for these results too and what’s going to happen next?!!

it sounds like you are going in the right direction. Make sure to take some pain relief before you start your exercises as this can help. 
Good luck with the rest of your recovery!!

Hi Aly

i had mine done in mid-feb and it took weeks and weeks of the stretches before it didn’t feel there was a tight web across my chest and back. I now have full movement but weakness and I’m literally lifting things like coffee jars as weights above my head with that arm and can feel it is weak.  I’m nervous to push it too much because of lymphoedema risk but it’s my dominant hand so I’m hoping things get back to normal.

all the best- just keep stretching all the time, waiting for the kettle to boil, lying in bed, watching tv etc 

xx

Hi Aly

I had mine done 8 weeks ago like yourself I couldn't lift it at all. My drain was in 15 days but after that came out I persevered with excersises and it helps tremendously.

Just keep doing them and ask your BCN to refer you to physio my first appointment today and they give you lots of encouragement to continue excersises. 

Don't forget painrelief before doing them. 

M

X

Hi. I’m 11 months post mastectomy and full node clearance and I’m still suffering with the scar tissue that pulls from top of my arm to across my chest. I’m having occupational therapy on it every few weeks and she try’s to loosen the stuck scar tissue across my chest and in my armpit. It’s better than it was but I wish I knew about OT earlier. Just want to advise if any one after clearance is suffering ask to be referred to OT. 
good luck. The pain will subside and some of the numbness goes. 

Thank you - it’s so hard to know what normal is. At the moment my mobility is good but my pain is bad. Seeing the consultant tomorrow so will try and find out what the expectation is