When should you be concerned about back pain??

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Hi, I completed treatment for CC in July 2024 but recently have been getting lower back pain. It’s not extreme pain more an ache and niggle that I know is there. Should I be concerned by this or am I over thinking and slightly paranoid about a reoccurrence. I have discussed with CSN who said I should discuss with GP but feel I have been fobbed off slightly. 
if anyone has experienced back pain linked to CC can you tell me how it felt and any advise?

x

  • Hi  

    I think that your CNS is probably right in saying you should see your gp for a chat about this. Many people in general suffer from back pain which isn’t anything to do with cancer.

    Some of us, myself included have suffered with back pain sometimes as a consequence of radiotherapy or surgery, but my recollection is that you had a very early stage cancer removed with a LLETZ procedure? 

    It’s much more likely that any general back pain is a result of something other than cancer and recurrence would be highly unlikely with a tiny cancer no surgery or radiotherapy was involved. 

    If you remain concerned, the best thing to do is make an appointment with your gp.

    Sarah xx


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  • Hi Tori

    i have recently completed treatment for CC and I have noticed back pain over the past few days and this has worried me also. 
    I have been convincing myself that maybe I have overdone it when I forced myself to spring clean my bedroom or maybe I have spent too long in bed trying to recover then at night time, the crazy thoughts come in, what if it has spread to my back, what if they missed something off the scans. It is such a worry with every new symptom that comes along after treatment. 
    even though you are worried and concerned , I have to say, reading your comment has been a bit of light relief for me today as I’m now assuming it may be another side affect. 
    take care x 

  • Hi  

    You are very recently out of treatment and have had radiotherapy and brachytherapy, so that could be related to your back pain. You’ve been through a lot, so try to take things a bit easier! 

    Hopefully this will ease off in time, but if you remain concerned or the pain is worsening, then contact your doctor. 

    Sarah xx


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  • Thanks Sarah

    Yes last Wednesday I had my last lot of Brachytherapy so I do need to rest- I’m just getting so frustrated how I can’t do what I used to do - simple things like cleaning or going shopping- it tires me out just getting a bath and fresh jamas on! 
    I have never slept so much. 

  • Sleep is a good healer and your body is telling you it’s needed. I used to have very regular naps during treatment, and when I was done with it all I slept a lot! 

    I still get very tired, and if I do, I rest up for a bit. I understand the frustration of not being able to do things you used to, but remember this should only be a temporary thing as you recover. Just give your body time, and don’t expect too much of yourself just at the minute. 

    Sarah xx


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