Nerve Damage

I have numbness on the back of my arm - in a narrow area from shoulder to just above the elbow.  I assume this is due to nerve damage from the time of the sentinel node biopsy.

Question:  why can't this be avoided if it's known the nerves are in the area? And, can anything be done to repair the damage?

It may seem a trivial matter in light of other more serious challenges women face, yet I find it very uncomfortable and yet another reminder of the mutilation I've endured.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Strike3, It would be best to bring this to the attention of your surgeon, who could evaluate.  Without further assessment it is impossible over the internet to determine the best way of managing this problem in your individual situation.  

[japdip]

You must have had some other surgery than the node biopsy, right ?? No, it can't be avoided and no, it can't be repaired. If your surgery was recent it may improve slightly but it's pretty much life long. You do get used to it and hardly notice it after considerable time has passed. I figure it's a small price to pay for life even if it is annoying at first.

[Strike3]

Thanks for your input. I would also appreciate a response from the Experts at the Cleveland Clinic.