Hello and thanks for posting,

Recovery time after surgery can vary, but can take up to three months. If it is worse, then you need to reduce your current daily activity that is using your shoulders. I appreciate this might be difficult in your job. But you could set back your full recovery considerably by overdoing physical activity just now. 

You should have had physiotherapy exercises to do daily, given to you from the hospital team. If not, then do make contact with the hospital breast care nurse or the physiotherapy department. 

The UK charity, Breast Cancer Now, has information and videos on exercises after breast cancer surgery  They have a PDF booklet and more information on physical activity after surgery   We have information and videos on our website as well with exercises after breast surgery

Try and not do repetitive activities, and space out your exercises, having rest periods in between if possible. Take some anti inflammatory medication to help. If the pain does not improve or worsens then do seek medical help from your GP, physiotherapist, or hospital team. 

I hope this helps,

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