Heavy arm after radiation simulation

oaktownmom

I had my radiation simulation last week, and found it very difficult and painful to hold my arms in position over my head for the 1.5-2 hours it took to complete the process.  Afterward, my right arm was so numb and weak I couldn't even get my car key in the ignition to drive home.  It got a bit better over the course of the next few days, but is still quite weak compared to the other side, and feels heavy.  No noticable swelling.  Could this be the start of lymphedema?  Or just muscle fatigue on an arm that clearly doesn't have full range of motion back after my surgery last July (I thought I had good range of motion until I had to put my arms in the radiation position!).  Has anyone else had lymphedema start in this way?

Binney4

Istreett, hello!

Bummer on the simulation complications! Sure could be muscle fatigue -- that's a long stretch to keep your arm up in an awkward position! Then again, it could be a good time to ask any doctor on your team for a referral to a well-trained lymphedema therapist for evaluation. S/he will take baseline measurements for future reference, give you personalized risk reduction tips, fit you for compression garments to wear prophylactically for exercise and travel, and teach you a simple, gentle lymph massage to help keep things moving. If s/he finds it's early-stage lymphedema, then you're in a good place to stop progression, ease self-care going forward, and help prevent serious infection.

Win/win! Here's how to find a well-qualified lymphedema therapist near you:
http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Finding_a_Qualified_Lymphedema_Therapist.htm

Hope rads goes really smoothly for you. Keep us posted. Be well!
Binney

oaktownmom

Thanks Binney! My PS took baseline measurements back in July, and my RO did her own measurements last week, so at least I have that to go by, and some indication that my team is aware of lymphedema. Excellent idea to ask for a referral to a specialist. A physical therapist is probably in order too. Thanks again for responding.