Forum Discussion
Lymph Node removal and lack of arm movement
Hi everyone - first post on here:) Quick question re lymph node removal, I had surgery 4 weeks ago, lumpectomy and lymph node surgery (8 nodes removed, 3 cancerous), I went back for breast re entry su...
Hi @Janeo70
It seems that mobility difficulty is anticipated after lymph node removal, but not always mentioned beforehand! I wasn't aware it was expected until I had a scan shortly after a mastectomy and axillary clearance (17 nodes, 1 cancerous) and was asked if I could put my left arm back, which I did easily and quickly to the surprise of the pathologist. I assume it depends exactly where your surgery has been and how many nerve endings have been disrupted. My post surgery mobility was excellent but even now, after nearly 12 years, I can occasionally get a scar tissue twinge. Stretching and exercises are key - can your surgeon or GP advise on what you might do additionally to the general exercises without compromising healing? Best wishes.
It seems that mobility difficulty is anticipated after lymph node removal, but not always mentioned beforehand! I wasn't aware it was expected until I had a scan shortly after a mastectomy and axillary clearance (17 nodes, 1 cancerous) and was asked if I could put my left arm back, which I did easily and quickly to the surprise of the pathologist. I assume it depends exactly where your surgery has been and how many nerve endings have been disrupted. My post surgery mobility was excellent but even now, after nearly 12 years, I can occasionally get a scar tissue twinge. Stretching and exercises are key - can your surgeon or GP advise on what you might do additionally to the general exercises without compromising healing? Best wishes.