Post op pain following bile duct cancer op

I underwent major surgery for bile duct cancer in July 2023 and am currently on adjuvent chemotheraphy.  Six months on I still have considerable, albeit variable, abdominal pain that feels like muscle tension with one specific area feeling tight and knotted.  My surgeon feels this is nerve related. He didn't commit to how long this may last.

I am interested in finding pain relief via alternative methods e.g. acupuncture, or treatment via a private physiotherapist.  Can you advise me on the best thing to try and I can I expect this pain to go eventually or am I liable to have it forever.

Many thanks

JeanJ 

  • Hi Jean and thank you for posting.

    It is difficult to say how long you will have this pain as everyone is so individual and it can be difficult for doctors to know how each patient will be. As many nerves within the body can be disturbed by the cancer and surgery, the healing can be unpredictable.

    It may be good for you to post on our 'Living with Cancer' forum thread to hear from others in similar situations and what may have worked for them.

    And this is the Cancer Research UK page on alternative treatments.

    Take care and if you want to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040. Lines are open from 9 am till 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

    Sarah.