http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm Thanks.]]> en-us Sun, 25 Mar 2012 12:37:16 GMT http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=183294#tr__183294 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=183294#tr__183294
After my lumpectomy on Feb 14 2012, I found the tingling and numbness in my hand to be too much.  Could not even grip a pen.  When I told the doctor, he too was puzzled as he said he was nowhere near anyt nerves.  Found out that I needed a mastectomy and had that March 9.  Still have the numbness in my hand, especially my thumb and first finger.  Having these 2 surgeries done on my left side and being left handed has made for just another challenge for me.  Will be seeing the doctor again this Wed and hopefully get some answers.

Fran]]> Sun, 25 Mar 2012 12:37:16 GMT Fran http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=183260#tr__183260 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=183260#tr__183260 Sat, 24 Mar 2012 23:51:27 GMT bcs2011 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=181078#tr__181078 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=181078#tr__181078 Sat, 10 Mar 2012 14:53:48 GMT bookworm1959 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179714#tr__179714 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179714#tr__179714 Sat, 25 Feb 2012 18:49:19 GMT Lily http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179713#tr__179713 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179713#tr__179713 Was wondering if everyone but me had gone south since not much activity on the web site for the las few days.  It is so right about speaking out, looking up info yourself and most of all asking questions.  Will be seeing my surgeon on Monday and hope he is ready for all the questions and concerns I have.  Again everyday feeling stronger and today even curled my hair, put makeup on to tried and look pretty for myself. It really made a difference on my outlook for today.

Thanks again

Fran]]> Sat, 25 Feb 2012 18:36:47 GMT Fran http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179708#tr__179708 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179708#tr__179708
you're right....there are so many  things to consider and we don't always get the full information from everyone.  The one thing I learned throughout my journey was to advocate for myself.  I discovered my voice and used it to help me along, by asking questions, researching and networking with others.  It's unfortunate that our health care system does not have a pre-determined clinical pathway for all, but again, we are better off than many south of us who don't have health care.  It's not perfect, but I think by participating in a chat room like this, networking with others, and just speaking out, we can make a difference in a good way, for many others.  It's frustrating and confusing when you're going through it, but don't be afraid to speak out, ask questions, and seek others' advice.  That's what we are all here for, to help and learn from each other.  Sending postive healing thoughts and ((hugs)) to you.]]> Sat, 25 Feb 2012 17:10:01 GMT Lily http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179706#tr__179706 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179706#tr__179706 Sat, 25 Feb 2012 17:04:44 GMT Lily http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179702#tr__179702 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179702#tr__179702 As for the type of work I am in and the employer accomodating my needs - I work in daycare. It's not a desk job and I am on my feet a lot which is why I noted before that I rest my arm when I come home. My employer does her best to accomodate my needs with regards to my health but the reality of daycare and working with children is that there aren't any ergonomically correct work stations or tools. That's the difference between office jobs and working with children. Pros and cons to each job when you have health concerns.]]> Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:40:36 GMT Narsook http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179542#tr__179542 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179542#tr__179542
Myself and family have noticed all the concerns and unknown about this subject over the past month.  Maybe the surgeons, pre-op people etc should have a better understading of this VERY important issue, and talk to us about this instead of us cancer victims running scared .We are all trying to deal with this on the same level, but if things were on the up and up, life just may be that much easier to get through the day.  One day at a time.

Fran]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 21:31:21 GMT Fran http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179536#tr__179536 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179536#tr__179536 lymphedema group on the site that might interest you. The group has been set up for all but specifically for Canadians living with or at risk for lymphedema to gather, share experiences and information and support one another. Sara, CancerConnection Team]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 19:58:30 GMT CancerConnectionTeam http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179499#tr__179499 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179499#tr__179499 Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:05:00 GMT Lily http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179497#tr__179497 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179497#tr__179497
So happy I could shed a little light on this for you.  I recall all too well the strange sensations and feelings I had after the surgery.  Had no idea what was going on as no one had given me any information on what to expect, including my surgeon.  I was kind of left on my own.  Luckily, I am the inquisitive type and did some research and asked a lot of questions which led me to my physical therapist (my angel in disguise!).  I recall coming out of the anesthetic feeling like someone had poked me with a 2 x 4 in my back shoulder.  I asked the nurses about it thinking it was the positioning during surgery, but no one could answer my questions or at least give me any information.  It was only when I saw my PT that she explained the muscles that had been "disturbed" during the surgery, nerve damage and the resulting scar tissue etc....  She began a treatment plan that included scar tissue massage, arm exercises etc.....and ultimately a very close eye on the lymphedema issue.  I am a stage 1 lymphedema so I manage it very closely with compression sleeves and am mindful of what I do and how I do it.  Without the knowledge from my PT, I shudder to think of what kiind of shape I would be in.  Most doctors do not understand the risk of lymphedema, and have tendencies to brush it off easily.  Don't allow that to happen!  Speak up and advocate for yourself.  Don't allow any needle pokes, iv's, or blood pressures to be taken on your affected limbs ever, no matter what anyone tells you.  The bottom line is you are the one at risk, not them, so don't take chances.  I had a medical procedure done this week that required me to be anestitized, so I had my affected limb literally covered in "Lymphedema, no needles, iv's, or blood pressures" written over my entire arm with a permanent marker.  I guarded that arm with my life and am glad I did.  .......  Sorry, I digress :-)  Just want to make you aware of what you need to be mindful of from now until .....forever.   Hope you have as much success with finding a great "lymphedema" trained PT as I did.  They truly will make all the difference in your recovery and ability to regain your mobility as you heal.  Positive healing thoughts to all.  ]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 16:59:31 GMT Lily http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179458#tr__179458 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179458#tr__179458
When I read your email it was like someone sent you to me from heaven.  I had my breast surgery last Tuesday Feb 14 (what a Valentines present that was) and the a lumpectomy and node removal.  Have had problems with stiffness, pain and swelling.  I have learned how to deal with that, but it is when I try to even write down a phone message, I cannot even hold the pen correctly as it feels like my hand is asleep/numb.  Becoming very frustrating.  I will be for sure telling my surgeon about this when I see him next week.  Live in Ontario and did Goggle therapists in the area who deal with this situation.  Found 2 who are in the same community as me.  Thanks for the advise.

Fran]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:26:37 GMT Fran http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179457#tr__179457 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179457#tr__179457
This is great information for so many of us. You were fortunate to have found a physical therapist who specializes in the treating of lymphedema and breast cancer rehab.

I am 1 year post surgery -same as yours - and for the first few months had the cording and sore shoulder/arm etc. Visits to the lymphedema therapist were helpful with the exercises given and the information/techniques for manual drainage. I have just been told that I now need to get a custom fitted compression sleeve instead of the ones I have been using. Unfortunately, my job precludes me from being able to elevate my arm to help with the lymphedema until I get home at night. I definitely find some mornings that the shoulder is sore from the way I end up sleeping in order to keep it elevated.

I would definitely agree that finding a therapist trained in lymphedema therapies is a great help. I have also been told that water exercise is a great way to gently exercise those muscles and areas that have been affected and decrease the lymphedema effects. I know I have certainly found that being in the water sped up the healing process for range of motion and eased the soreness in arm/shoulder area.]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:25:56 GMT Narsook http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179419#tr__179419 http://cancerconnection.ca/groups/breast_cancer_survivors/discussion/2012/02/15/sore-shoulderarm?tr=179419#tr__179419
I am 2 years plus post surgery - lumpectomy & axillary node dissection.  My saving grace to all these symptoms was my phyiscal therapist who specializes in breast cancer rehab.  She is a leading expert in treating lymphedema for the province of Sask.  I am so fortunate to have had her on my care team.  Cording, early stages lymphedema, shoulder strengthening and range of motion were all part of her treatment plan.  I regained full range of motion in my shoulder, pain is gone, cording is gone and I manage the lymphedema risk with the use of properly fitted compression sleeves.  I have been educated about manual lymphadic drainage and how to manage the risk of lymphedema through her. I am doing extremely well as a result.  My advice is find yourself a physical therapist that is trained in the treatment of lymphedema and breast cancer rehab.  Google lymphedema treatments for your area and inform yourself.  Don't go to just any physical therapist as they could unknowingly aggravate the situation.  There is much that can be done successfully if you can access the right individual.   Good luck with everything.  I hope you can find someone to help your through this.]]> Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:37:09 GMT Lily