Hi Hollie and thanks so much for posting.

As you have mentioned the numbness near you ear is normal and may improve  with time. 

The accessory nerve controls shoulder movement. So if the surgeon removes it, your shoulder will become stiffer and more difficult to move. Raising your arm over your head on that side can also become more difficult.

After a selective neck dissection, the weakness in your arm usually lasts only for a few months. But if the surgeon completely removes your accessory nerve, the damage is permanent. Usually, you see a physiotherapist, who teaches you exercises to help improve the movement in your neck and shoulder. It is important to do these exercises regularly.

Some people still have problems with pain and movement a year after surgery, despite doing their exercises. If this happens, your surgeon may refer you to a shoulder surgery specialist.  You could contact your team to ask about this, or speak to your specialist nurse if you have one.

I hope this is helpful, please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  We have a nurse helpline you can call on Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Best wishes

Rachel

Thankyou so much for your reply. Unfortunately it has been 8 years since my surgery and the pain and movement has worsened. 
Could you send me any information for a specialist or how I go about sorting this?

I am currently under a orthopaedic dr who has referred me for EMG test but that's all. Is there more I can do?

Thanks

Hollie

Hi Hollie and thanks for getting back to us again,

We can't recommend a specialist but you may find it helpful to look at our resource page which has different organisations that you may find helpful to contact here

There are details of organisations such as The Mouth Cancer Foundation and Head and Neck Cancer UK (HANCUK).  HANCUK is set up by cancer specialists' and patients affected by head and neck cancers.

You have posted in 'Ask The Nurses' but if you post on another thread you may find that you get more posts.

I can understand how frustrating this must be particularly as it is 8 years down the line. Sometimes it can be helpful talking to others in a similar situation.

You are of course more then welcome to give one of the helpline nurses a ring to discuss any any of this. We are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040.

Very Best Wishes,

Catherine