I had Mx with immediate diep recon in March 2008. Nearly 2 years on and I feel as though I have permanent stitch in my ribs and abdomen just below my ribs. I lead an extremely active lifestyle but now this is really being affected by this constant pain. It’s like having toothache in my ribs every day. I am trying so hard to get on with my life following a tough time with numerous fat necrosis complications (which were sorted with further surgery) but am finding it’s really hard to put all this behind me with this constant reminder every day. I have an appt with the onc in 2 weeks and I’ll get him to check it’s nothing sinister but I got my GP to check my bloods and my tumour markers are all ok. I didn’t have radiotherapy just chemo. I was reading Susan Love’s breast book and she said that up to 49% of women suffer from chronic pain post Mx and often the pain is relative to how much pain was experienced at the time of the operation. (My pain control post DIEP op was lousy).
She also says that some people have tried acupuncture.
I was wondering if anyone else is experiencing chronic pain so long after the op? (or am I a ‘freak’ once again with weird side effects)and whether anyone had any experience of acupuncure? I wouldn’t have a clue where to start to find an acupuncturist who has any knowledge of BC but I’m getting desperate and really feel I have to do something proactive to deal with this pain.
Thanks Ladies xxx
I know its a different scenario but I had accupuncture for chronic pain following orthopaedic surgery and the difference was amazing.
It may be just what you need to train your body not to be in pain.
Maybe your BCN or Breast Unit physio can help you with finding someone suitable.
Good luck
Dot
xxx
Hi,very sorry to hear about your pain. I think you need to ask your consultant who did the DIEP operation about this pain too. I had MX and DIEP Oct 2008, I have no pain at all after the op. I hope they can find out what’s causing the pain. Good luck. xx