Lots of pain tightness months after BMX. PT or massage ideas?

carriebee

I am still experiencing significant tightness and pain in my breasts and chest 3.5 months after my nipple-sparing double mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. I am still unable to work, drive, lift or walk distances without pain. I had complications and almost lost most of my breast skin. My doctor says I am still healing and to be patient. I discontinued PT and myofascial release because they cause more pain although I continue to do the PT exercises at home. Any recommendations for physical or massage therapists in the San Francisco area? Any other suggestions?

Thanks!

Carrie

48 yrs, stage 0 DCIS and 0 LCIS, strong family history, double NSM SNB immediate reconstruction on 7/3/2013

Warrior319

I am not familiar with any doctors in San Francisco area, but I understand the pain. I was in complete discomfort for 6+ months after bi-lateral mastectomy with reconstruction. I highly recommend medical cupping done by massage therapists. It helped me tremendously. The pain and tightness would be so tight it would nearly take my breathe away. There is another procedure along the lines of cupping but cannot remember the name for it.

Denise-G

There was previous topic about cupping here:

http://community.breastcancer.org/forum/64/topic/781454

My Lymphedema Specialist told me she has had several breast cancer patients develop

Lymphedema because of massage -- one of the women had no node involvement although

she had a Mastectomy.

I went through Cancer Rehab / Physical Therapy for my arm and chest. It helped alot!

rlo5

It sounds like you've been through a LOT.

The Bay Area is a big place but in case you're in South Bay I can recommend both.

My PT specializes in cancer care rehabilitation. She's very matter of fact but the exercises she gave me really do help. Her name is Rachel Peters. She's in Palo Alto with Palo Alto Medical Foundation. 650-853-3355.

I was recently referred to a massage therapist/acupuncturist who specializes in breast cancer rehab. I saw her yesterday for the first time. She is very nurturing and will do a massage with you totally lying on your back. She might be able to do cupping too since she's an acupuncturist. Her name is Kate Perkins. She's in Los Gatos and Santa Cruz. Her number is 831-331-6959.

I don't know if this is an option for you but what's helped me most is swimming. Actually it started out just standing in the pool and moving my arms around. Then slowly I graduated to a gentle breast stroke. Just 10-20 minutes a day is enough. I go to the Y so that afterwards I can slather Bio Oil all over my breasts and scars and sit in the sauna for a few minutes and let it soak in.

Good luck...

carriebee

Thanks for all the responses. This is very helpful!