Hi
I had a single mastectomy with lymph node clearance and implant (expander) 3 weeks’ ago.
I am in a lot of unbearablepain at the top of my arm - tingling, throbbing, burning etc - anyone ever used TENS machine?
Any suggestions apart from usual painkillers? Taking diclofenac, paracetemol and started amitriptiline last night…
Julie
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Hi ms j cohn
It’s Emily here from Breast Cancer Care.
I’m really sorry to hear about the pain you’re experiencing. While you’re waiting for replies on here, I thought I’d let you know that some of our telephone volunteers have described having pain after their mastectomy and lymph node surgery too. If you’d like us to arrange for you to talk to one of them about practical tips and suggestions, feel free to give us a call on 0345 077 1893.
Wishing you all the best in the meantime.
Emily at Breast Cancer Care
Hi!
Sorry I had to erase my last message…personal reasons!
I use TENS regularly for other reasons so have much experience of them. However I wouldn’t use TENS round scar areas until they heal and definitely near or on the front of the chest area because it could be too close to the heart, however the shoulder is fine.
I too had a dreadful amount of pain and in the most part was doped up, so hope it eases soon for you. It WILL improve, but it’s not easy being patient when you’re in pain!!!
Hypnotherapy can help with pain but make sure you go to a hypnotherapist who is properly qualified, specialises in pain, and will teach you self hypnosis.
Post on here anything that you try and works for you.
Good luck!