Post Mastectomy and Axillary Lymph node removal pain

Hi

I too had cording from a right masectomy.

Keep doing the exercises several times a day, it will be painful but just keep going.

I also paid privately for a sports massage therapist to break my cording down, it did take several sessions and it is quite painful, but now my arm is 100%better, full range of movement and no cording.

I did check that this was ok with my surgeon before doing it, so please check with yours just incase this is not suitable for you.

I still have some nerve damage and numbness 3 mths post op. I have been informed this may or may not get better over time. I still get nerve type pains randomly. 

Hope this helps.

Hi DaffodilSue  I recommend asking to be referred for physio - it has been a game changer for me - have had several sessions and this has resolved some lymphoedema I was experiencing and has also softened scar tissue. (The only thing is that it might be too early? I wasn't referred until a couple of months after surgeries). I would definitely discuss with your nurse. If you possibly can keep going with the exercises, try - I found these key to resolving early problems. Sending positive vibes - the pain and discomfort is really debilitating and I found it really got me down - hope you can get it sorted / improved xx

I completely understand. I had really bad cording, for context as soon as I showed my consultant and breast care nurse they both stood back and said ooh yes that’s bad. I couldn’t even straighten my arm down my side. I was referred to physiotherapy about 3 weeks post op. A few sessions in and I could straighten my arm and got full movement back. I have also taken up reformer Pilates which has really helped. As we speak I do have one painful stubborn cord left. I’m still seeing the physio and she is doing massage and cupping which is really helping. 

It’s very recent!

You are doing the right things though, rest, pain relief, massage and exercises as far as you are able. Be gentle on the area and kind to yourself. Walking outdoors helped me feel better too.xx