I had abdominal hysterectomy, chemo and radiotherapy last year. I have experienced aches and pains and in my legs ever since but over the last few months have had increasing back pain which is now pretty much there constantly. i saw my oncologist for my next 3 monthly check last week and told her about the pains. I was worried she was going to say they were worried it was a recurrence and would send me for scans even though I knew I needed them. What she actually said which came as a shock was that she thought the radiotherapy I had had may have damaged the bones in my spine. She said it could cause little fractures. I am now awaiting an MRI scan to see what’s happening. Has anyone else had this happen after radiotherapy?
Hi Bella H
Pelvic radiotherapy can cause what are called insufficiency fractures in the area treated, and I do know a number of ladies who have suffered from this. The mri will show up if you have them-I thought I did because of the pain I was having but was told nothing showed up on the mri.
If you do find you have these, they will heal in time, but I appreciate this is very painful. Rest and trying not to weight bear (ie by using crutches) seems to be the only thing that can help, along with painkillers.
Sarah xx
