How are breast scar tissue adhesions or neuromas diagnosed? I understand that both can cause scar area nerve pain. The type of nerve pain i have is now constant: a burning sensation, sometimes tingling & sometimes a recurrent shock-type pain. The burning sensation isnt just terribly bad but has become daily. The worst pain is the shock-type but that kind is just occasional. My left mastectomy was 11/2022. I take 400 mg of gabapentin nightly. Also, i need to take 1200mg of calcium. Does calcium affect scar tissue negatively?
Hi imchrisann
Thanks for posting. It sounds as if you have been having a difficult time with ongoing pain since your mastectomy in 2022.
Immediately after surgery for breast cancer and in the weeks that follow, it’s common to feel some pain and discomfort. 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 scar tissue or damage to the nerves, particularly those in the axilla (underarm). Diagnosis is made based on clinical history and examination. Sometimes additional scans may be indicated.
There are different ways of managing this type of pain. However, as you have had this pain for some time and are already taking gabapentin, you may benefit from specialist advice and you could ask your treatment team or GP to refer you to an NHS pain clinic. We are not aware of oral calcium affecting scar tissue negatively, but you could ask your treatment team or GP about this.
Some hospitals run pain management programmes which you may be interested in.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. 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
Val
Breast Care Nurse
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