Expander Pain

[Woodstockmom]

Today is 4 weeks since my bi-lateral latissimus dorsi mastectomy.  I just had my 3rd expansion currently 450 ccs.  The pain and discomfort continues and does not seem to get any better.  I am taking Robaxin every 5-6 hours with Loritab for pain.  Walking helps but then my back gets sore.  Is there anything I can do to help with the spasms and tightness?

[Esca]

Check the internet for "Post mastectomy pain syndrome' as some women get this pain with and/or without reconstruction.  Lots of luck to you.

[stepaheda]

I also am going through reconstruction (5wk). A friend told me to try rubbing castor oil around the rib cage to help with the pain. I thought how can this help. But you know what it did, I was finally able to get some sleep at night. The pain was keeping me up at night, and once I started rubbing the castor oil on every night I did not have to take as many pain pills. It has been 3 wks now since I started using the castor oil, and I can truly tell you I am so happy I did it. My doctors are surprise that in such a short time I can more my arms over the top of my head. I know it is becasue the Castor Oil is heping with the pain/and tighen around the rib cage area. I hope this will help someone out there.
Stepaheda