Not sure what I have

Lisey

So on June 14th, I had a double Mastectomy with TEs... I was in such pain with the iron bra I couldn't do anything for 3 weeks. on July 7th, I had the TEs removed, and I'm feeling much better.. BUT when I met with the nurse 1 week post up, she was very surprised by how 'tight' my arms are and not moving to 90 degrees. both of my arms can go to 90, but it's hard. It doesn't hurt, just is really tight. However, if I try to do more than 90 degrees, I buckle. Plus I have a small seroma, and so the nurse told me not to overwork the arms for fear it will grow.

I can't sleep on my sides, as both sides hurt near my armpits, and given how tight I am, I'm worried about cording? I also am worried that if I push myself to stretch more, I'll develop swelling and lymphodema... Do you think my strange tightness is normal or probable cording? When did you all start exercising the arms with stretching? And would you count my mastectomy date as 1 month out or would you reset the count to 12 days post op given I was opened up again to take out the damn TEs?

ksusan

Sorry. Sounds difficult. I would suggest seeing an LE-certified PT.

glennie19

Agree. I would find a certified LE therapist to help you.

Denise-G

Yes, me too. See a Lymphedema Therapist ASAP. They are a lifesaver!