Did you ever have this?

Cathy1 · 02-15-2007, 08:51 AM

Hi! Did anyone ever have terrible underarm pain and pain along the scar after mastectomy? My left breast mastectomy was nine years ago and this is the only time I'm having problems, especially at night. I don't know if I didn't raise my arm enough and it's all fluid or what could be causing the pain. The onc thinks it's scar tissue and the surgical clips showed up as a 1cm area on the MRI that hasn't changed in years. Could chest wall or underarm lymphedema cause all this pain or scar tissue after so many years? And do any of you know of a good lymphedema site where I could find answers. Thanks and God Bless You All, Cathy

Lolly · 02-15-2007, 03:24 PM

Cathy, have you ever had a PET/CT? This type of scan will show any unusual biological "activity" in areas of concern. Scar tissue can show up, as well as inflammation from injury and disease, and someone skilled in reading these scans can tell the difference. It might help pinpoint what is causing the pain?

<3 Lolly

Hope M. · 02-18-2007, 09:07 PM

Dear Cathy,

I have had good results with deep tissue massage therapy under my arm. The scar tissue can release with heat and massage, although I am not sure about older scar tissue.

Good luck,
Hope M.