TUMOR ARM PAIN AND LYMPHEDEMA

[rcmaxson]

i have had a bilateral mastectomy and still have a left side axillary tumor. on top of that i have lymphedema .i have a compression sleeve and a compression glove and am taking morphine but the swelling and extreme pain in my hand and arm continues on and is getting worse. i have seen my doctor and a pain management specialist for this, and they tell me theres nothing more that they can do . are they right or is there something else i can do for some help and relief.

[Cancer Survivor]

I suffered greatly with lymphedema after my cancer. I was living in the midwest. I moved to Florida and it very rarely, if ever, bothers me. Just to let you know that when I go back up north the pain is back. I think the weather has a lot to do with it. Just my opinion.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear rcmaxson,  Lymphedema is swelling in the arm or leg caused by excess fluid that collects after lymph nodes and vessels are removed by surgery or treated by radiation.  Lymphedema can occur within a few days, months or years after surgery.

  

The key with lymphedema is to prevent it from occurring.   Treatment of this condition needs to be individualized to the specific situation, after assessment of the extent of the problem.  Goals of treatment would be to try to prevent further swelling, measures to relieve pain and discomfort, and prevent further problems such as skin breakdown and infection.   You may want to check in your area if there is a specialist who works with persons with lymphedema, who may be able to offer other suggestions for your individual situation.  The options may be limited, however, if there is a persistent tumor on that side.


For more comprehensive information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is www.clevelandclinic.org once there click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.

[rcmaxson]

YES PHYSICAL THERAPY WAS DONE IN THE ONSET, BUT DO TO THE TUMORS POSITION AND THE OPEN SORES AND IRRITATION IN THE INCISION SITE, THERAPY IS NOW NOT AN OPTION

[japdip]

You didn't mention if you had been to a Physical Therapist trained in the treatment of Lymphedema. If not, you definitely should do this. The compression garments are only the tip of the iceberg as far as treating Lymphedema.