Is there any "after care" once treatments are done?

earli

Having read as many post as I could, I am looking for suggestions in dealing with the after effects of chemo, surgery and radiation? It has been 10 months since diagnosis. Chemo in Jan-April,

Surgery in May to remove my right breast and 14 lymph nodes, Radiation May-Aug.

I had a wonderful team of doctors focused on their task but not on the person. They were the best at what each of them did and I am sure I had the best treatment possible.

Once radiation was done and OT set up, they said said see you in 3 months.

I was left with scar tissue, which still has not allowed me a full range of motion, pain ( which drugs were offered ), and now lymphedema. Once OT reached its max with my insurance, I was lucky enough to qualify for PT.

My concern about not healing as quickly as I though led me to call my Dr. and I was told, "You may always have pain associated with the scar tissue and you just need to learn to live with and manage the lymphedema.

Call me crazy but after the year I've had, I expected a better answer to my questions. I know there is a better answer. Any one out their have one?

sheila888

Hi earli.....For scar tissue problems call your breast surgeon.

Oncologist is not really involved anything but your chemo treatment and follow up every 3 months that's what mine did.

I didn't have reconstruction and mine range of motion was fine about 2 weeks later.

Breast Surgeon referred me to a lymphedema therapist because 3 years later just developed mild lymphedema.

I don't know what your hormonal receptors are but that's the oncologist who prescribes the pills.

If any other questions please ask

Sheila

earli

my Surgeon is the one who told me the scar tissue not allowing my skin to move may not get any better. The PT and OT have done wonders but my range of motion 5 months later is still no where close to normal. They have spent a lot of time working on the fluid in my arm and mid section in hopes of reducing the swelling. I have arm reducers for day and night and therapy to move the fluid around my middle.

My concern is that I assumed with hard work and following all instructions I would be back to moving without pain. I just hoping there is something else I can do to get back to living again.

sheila888

Earli.. maybe someone else with the same condition might help you here.

OT came home twice after my BMX first time I was able to raise my arm and she didn't think I needed help. 5 months is a long time maybe you should have a second opinion.Good luck to you.

Please update us.

ElaineTherese

Hmm, have you thought about going to an orthopedic surgeon or someone who might scan your shoulder? My Mom had problems with her range of motion and it turned out to be a rotator cuff injury. I'm not saying that's what you have (probably related to your mastectomy), but it's always a possibility. She didn't even know how she injured it!