Hello all, I am 3 months post full mastectomy. About 1 month ago after regain full mobility of my arm I got some cording. Kept going to breast rehab physiology and did all the stretching exercises and have that sorted. However in last couple weeks I get random nerve pain under arm which is sudden and severe. what do you recommend and how to get this sorted too?? Swimming definitely helps.
Hi Timir,
Thank you for your post. It is good news that physiotherapy, exercises and swimming have helped with your cording. Nerve pain after surgery for breast cancer is very common and nerves often take the longest to heal. You may experience different sensations such as a burning feeling and numbness in the scar area and under the arm. Having pain may make it more difficult to do arm exercises and maintain a good range of movement. So it’s important to report any problems you’re having to your treatment team or GP. It’s a good idea to continue to swim as you have mentioned that helps.
As healing takes place, these effects usually subside. For most people this happens within a few months. However, for some, they can persist, and we know this can affect quality of life.
Ongoing (chronic) or persistent pain may be caused by damage to the nerves, particularly those in the axilla (underarm). There are different ways of controlling this pain.
If this doesn’t resolve or is not controlled you may benefit from specialist advice so your doctor may refer you to an NHS pain clinic. And some hospitals run pain management programmes.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Tiggy
Breast Care Nurse
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I had breast cancer 23 yrs ago ,had a bilateral mastectomy and 10 lymph nodes removed.
My arm pit is still numb after all these years .
I’m waiting for the pain clinic my breast consultation thinks I’m going to need a needle to a nerve in my chest ,that keeps snapping randomly I could be putting on a seatbelt, stretching to a cupboard, trying to cut my toe nails .
This leaves me feeling winded and can take a day to feel ok .
He thinks maybe the nerve is trapping from radiation .
Hopefully yours settles down soon .