Back and shoulder pain after radiation

Jubby46

I finally got an answer to why I have back and shoulder pain. My lymphedema therapist said that the radiation goes

into and through the breast to the back and affects your back that way. I am doing shoulder exercises and she presses

on a spot on my back that is oh so where the pain is. She knows what she is doing for sure.

My skin is pretty good and even though I am done with radiation my therapist said to still moisturize under my arm and my breast.

She gave me such education on why we swell. I learned so much.

linnyhopp

Hi Jubby ~ I finished rads 10 days ago and have been having pain in the shoulder blade area (right side, same as one treated).  I am going to see the lymphedema specialist/physical therapist next week so will ask her if this could be a post-radiation issue.  I hate to even "go there" but the pain brings up some scary thoughts for me.  I will go to the MO if I don't get an answer that makes me feel comfortable.  My skin is peeling big time and it's not pretty!  I did see the lymphedema specialist before the pain started and she told me the same things as you learned...keep moving and keep moisturizing. 

 Hope we have some others join us with their experiences with this issue.  Take care and have a great weekend.   Linda

Jubby46

Hi,

I don't stop by much. Your skin issue is from radiation. Moisturize with aloe vera or aquaphor.

I have lots of exercises to do now. The therapist is helping alot. Oh only do certain movements. Not all is good. That is why it 

will be good for you to go back. You can use heat not too hot. Don't take hot showers or baths. The heat will cause swelling.

You can use ice not too long. You need stretching exercises of your shoulder and shoulder blade and therapist will do massages if she/he is good.

I get massage first then use gym machines and weight exercises. My pain is lessening so there is hope for you too. I have numbness and sensitivity issues on my arm and she is helping me with that. That is the biggest breakthrough. Hope you have a good therapist.If you aren't happy, then find another one.

where do you live? sending hugs your way

I am in NY We can talk on the phone if you want

Yes it can be partially post radiation. And also caused by surgery. Nerves are cut and they take forever to heal. Email me if you want. 

jmurs116@gmail.com

anafoefana

I have been dealing with pain in my shoulder for a while now.  I finished radiation in late February.  I have attributed it to the cut nerves and rads, but now am starting to wonder if I need to pursue this with the doctors.  I just saw the RO for the last time this year last week and she kind of blew it off as normal.  I am finishing Herceptin and having my port removed next week, so things are moving along, but I am concerned. 

I see my MO next week and I think I am going to ask to see a PT.  I had radiation on my nodes and I am concerned about LE, but so far I have not had any symptoms.  I am traveling by air in a couple of weeks and have a sleeve I will be using just in case.