Thanks Angie. The problems on the right side I can see, because of nerve damage from lymph nodes removed. I just can't figure out why the left side, unless there is nerve damage from mastectomy on that side. I did not have lymph nodes removed on left side though. The PT I go to specializes in Breast Cancer patients so I do trust them. Maybe I just have to continue to go and eventually it will work out. One note, I am numb under my arm on right side (in armpit and along scar line and the underside of arm), but not left so I believe that is from the lymph nodes removed.

I'll just continue doing the exercises and hope it helps. I believe I will be having additional scans after Sept appt with Oncologist (it will then be 1 year since diagnosis) so maybe I'll continue with PT and if nothing changes will have MRI and see Orthopedic Specialist.

thanks, Johanna

Hi Johanna,  I was searching this site because I too have very sore shoulders.  I had a bilateral mastectomy on June 30, 2009.  I too went for PT for my left arm because of nerve damage and lymph nodes removal.  I plan on having my exchange in Nov. for my implants but  both my shoulders are very sore to move.  Are yours better I hope as I see your post is from June.  I also developed vertigo so when I try  to reposition in bed my head spins. Hoping when I get my implants this goes away.  Not sure if it is the weight of the expander pulling on muscles. Take Care. Carol

Hi Carol,

My shoulders are a little better. I'm working out 3 times a week at the gym, using the lightest resistance. Still doing exercises the PT gave me. I guess it just takes time. I saw the breast surgeon last week and she said mobility is great so it probably is just the muscles. I won't be able to have reconstruction for another 2 years or so. She suggested having the PT massage the area of the scar where radiation was done. Hope all goes well with your implants. Our bodies just have gone through alot and it takes time. I figure my treatments started Oct 1st last year and ended at the end of May.  That is 9 months. You start when the end of treatments and then add that time (for me 9 months) so I should be feeling much better by next February. Working out and eating healthy will get me there. Stay positive! Take care, Johanna

Hi Johanna,  Thank you so much for your reply.  I too think the soreness is muscles.  Ever since I returned to walking.  I usually walk about 4 miles on walking trails where we live, the paths are paved but they go up and down some steep hills.  But my arms are just sore.  It feels like when your muscles are sore from exercising.  But I've been walking steady for about six weeks.  It is not pain just muscle sorness.  Sorry to hear you have to wait two years for reconstruction.  I had a lumpectomy 5 years ago followed with radiation.  So after being diagnosed again this year on the same side I chose to do the bilateral with tissue expanders.  So because I will be going in for the exchange I was trying to get back to my walking,  I am going for pre-op Nov. 3rd with my surgery being Nov. 16th.  Hopefully I will feel more normal once the expanders are removed.  Before all of this I considered myself a very active 53 year old.  Everyone says you look great but sometimes I feel a little beat up.  Hope is all we can have.  Good Luck with everything as you continue your journey to wellness.  Stay strong !

Thanks again Carol