Rib pain

Hi Debs, I haven't had radiotherapy, but I have had recent issues with a mastectomy that was done over 3 months ago. I had tissue expanders placed in this side, plus on the other side, which had been removed 9 months prior. Following the development of a massive haematoma and a trip back to theatre to have this sorted out at 3 weeks post op, I started to experience weird pains and sensations. Everything was hypersensitive, and the sensation I had was a tightening and the feeling of the implant being lifted. This went on for weeks, and even the plastic surgeon had trouble inflating that side due to the tightness. He had no great suggestions, but my physiothapist did. She suggested some laser treatment and the application of Kinesio tape following each session. The PS was ok with this. I had 4 sessions in the 2 weeks before Christmas, and the results are amasing. I had one more session today, and my exchange surgery is next Wednesday. The chest muscle that had been very tight and almost constantly cramping has relaxed and is softer. The tape allows for lymphatic drainage away from the problem area. The laser does no damage, but will break up the fibrous tissue, and promote the growth of collagen (spelling?). I now have no pain, and I was wondering if it might help you with your mastectomy and rib pain. It could be worth a conversation with your physio. Mine is provided as part of a Lymphodema program. My surgeon is delighted with the softness that has been achieved, and I'm more confident about surgery next week. Apparently they use this a lot in the USA, and they find that it reduces the contracture rate of implants for those who have had radiotherapy from 40% down to about 5%. I was thinking that my tightness might have been a contracture developing. Now it is soft and I'm less concerned. Hope you find a solution to your problem. Love Chris xx