PMPS or Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome

[harrie]

I would like to hear from anyone who has experienced PMPS, or Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome. It is a chronic pain condition, typically neuropathic in nature, following surgery to the breast. It is usually characterized by pain that persists beyond the normal healing time of approximately 3 months and the pain may be characterized by numbness, pins & needles, burning or stabbing.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has experienced this condition. Thank you.
Maryanne

http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/neuropathicpain.html

[pattyz]

I had this for about two or three yrs post my mastectomy. It is fairly common I think.

pattyz

[Becky]

Although I only had lumpectomy, I get stabbing type pain and "pulling" sensations not necessarily by the scarline but deep within where the tumor bed was.

[Mary Jo]

Other than the typical "numbness" associated with mastectomy (and only felt when touched in my case) I have never had pain or sensations in either mastectomy site. Maybe an occasional "buzz" feeling but that is rare.

Great thread!

Mary Jo

[Marilyn June]

My double mastectomy took place in July 06. My expander exchange in March 07. I have had pain under my arms at the location of all 4 drains since the mastectomy. I don't have much pain other than some nerve pain in my arms that I did not have pre-mast.

I must add that 2 of my drains were in for 3 weeks after the mast. I don't know if that has anything to do with the ongoing pain. The drains were the worst thing about both operations for me. In fact, I am not overwhelmed about the results of my implants and after my husband reminded me that I would need drains if I replaced them, I had a change of heart!

Marilyn June

[lexigirl]

I do have discomfort in my mast area. I was really concerned that there may be something going on because of the burning type sensation. I have read that some women may eperience this. I am hopeful that it will subside over time. I am waiting patiently!

Lexi

[hutchibk]

Bouts of it (currently having one) ever since mastecomy in Dec 03.

[harrie]

http://www.nature.com/bjc/journal/v92/n2/full/6602304a.html

http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/mastectomypain.php

http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/neuropathicpain.html

http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/neuropathicpain.html#introduction

http://www.cancerlynx.com/syndrome.html

Here are some links in case you are intested in this syndrome.

Maryanne

[Barbara2]

Yes, from time to time I have an ache or pain at the mastectomy site. My onc said that is not unusual and could be off and on always.

[Alice]

Hi,
I'm so glad I'm not alone out there. Although I wouldn't wish this on anyone. I have had shoulder, arm and chest pain, tingling, numbness, stiffness, edema ever since surgery 19 months ago. I just went to see my surgeon and he said that the pain I am having is not tipical and it is a chronic condition. I asked him when I can expect it to get better? He said that it would probably not get better at this point, I will just get more used to it.
It does seem to help to keep my arm stretched, so I stretch at least 4 times a day. I also do yoga once a week and that helps. I am hesitant to have reconstruction though because I am afraid of causing it to get worse. I also am not able to wear a bra, as that seems to aggrevate everything.
I took a look at the links and the site is very informative.
Alice