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Pain in arms and chest after breast and axilla removal

staypositive

I am awaiting radiotherapy, currently 8 weeks after left breast mammoplasty and full axilla removal.  I have started Tamoxifen, 2 weeks ago and returned to work 3 weeks ago.  I am experiencing arm pain/ strain in my non cancerous side in addition to lymph fluid swelling at times on my left side. I continue to do my exercises which help me move the fluid around and my scars are healing.

Obviously I have been using my arms more as I am a teacher and returning to work full time is a change in my recovery. Should I be concerned at arm/ shoulder strain in my non cancerous side or is it just because I am overcompensating for my operated left side?

I welcome any advice.

Parents

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    You probably are over using your other arm without realising. Try and avoid repetitive movement in one go, and don't lift more than 5kg in either arm at the moment.

    Keep up your exercises as instructed by your hospital team. Take some simple painkillers if it's sore at the end of the day. 

    I hope that this improves for you soon,

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda

Reply

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    You probably are over using your other arm without realising. Try and avoid repetitive movement in one go, and don't lift more than 5kg in either arm at the moment.

    Keep up your exercises as instructed by your hospital team. Take some simple painkillers if it's sore at the end of the day. 

    I hope that this improves for you soon,

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda

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