PMPS or Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome
 

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/...athicpain.html

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

pattyz

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.

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

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

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

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

Links
 

http://www.nature.com/bjc/journal/v9.../6602304a.html

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

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

http://www.cancersupportivecare.com/...l#introduction

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

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

Maryanne

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.

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