WHY DO I HAVE RIB PAIN AFTER BREAST CANCER TREATMENT? Rib Pain after Radiation Treatment
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ส.ค. 2021
- After Breast Cancer Treatment is finished, sometimes your quality of life can be impacted by accumulative physical and mental stressors. An example of this is ongoing physical pain as a side effect of Breast Cancer Treatment. One of those physical pains that can annoy you on a daily basis is lower rib pain on the side you had treatment.
I suspect this rib pain is caused by Radiation Treatment: In the same way it can affect the chest wall or the breast, Radiation can cause tension in the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs) which in turn creates pain.
The good news - from my clinical experience this issue is quickly treated with soft tissue massage of the intercostal muscles. Watch this video to learn more about rib pain after Radiation.
Remember to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and COMMENT on the video!
Jen x
I cannot begin to tell you how much I appreciate this video! I am almost one year post lumpectomy, and nine months post radiation. I have been experiencing this exact rib pain on and off for months, ever since I started back to my exercise routine. When Jen reached for the area of the ribs I could have cried! Actually several times due this video I cried a bit. THANK YOU. Sincerely from someone who is starting to wonder where the aftercare for breast cancer patients is?!? I eventually had a bone scan & CT. That opened a can of worms and I had an MRI. (They saw a few spots on my liver, all is well, but they have to be sure) My God, the WORRY!!! In my situation. The surgery and radiation were the easy part! Everything since has been a daily struggle. I feel hopeful now & will be looking into physiotherapy. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart, which is very near the bottom of my ribs, which hurt like hell!😂♥️
Hello Meredith! Thank you for your lovely feedback on the video. So pleased it resonated with you! I can't believe the number of women who have this rib pain. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
@meredithwamhoff3162
I have felt so alone with all this. Thank you for posting.
I, too, have experienced so little aftercare.
It's really difficult to explain, as it's been a few years with the rib pain, and it's barely acknowledged.
@@cherylelancaster8791 I've replied to you in your other comment. Jen x
@@TheBreastCancerPhysio i’m 😭in deep pain. I have low cancer and I did radiation. I’ve been up all night long crying all night long I’m in severe pain not just a little bit but severe pain.
So glad I found this video. You can’t believe how much this has relieved some of my stress knowing now that this pain is a common after effect of radiation. Very good content.
Why isn't this valuable info given to patients????
Surgeons don’t know. They don’t listen well enough to patients.
Hi Tanya, so sorry for my very delayed reply. I am playing catch up on comments! I think some Medical Professionals tend to focus on just their area of expertise. We need a much better system of helping patients with Breast Cancer recover AFTER active treatment is completed. This comes back to the role of the Allied Health Professionals mostly. Jen x
@@TheBreastCancerPhysio
Yes!!!
Thank you Jen. All of my questions you have been able to answer for me when I haven't gotten answers from anyone else. You are a gem and I am grateful for you and your videos. Thank you!
My absolute pleasure Holly!! Thank YOU for your lovely feedback! I hope everything is going well for you. Jen
I have suffered rib and back pain after lumpectomy for a malignant Phyllodes tumour
I had radiation with boosts
No one till now has helped
A huge thank you
Can’t thank you enough for this video. I’m having the exact rib pain you describe 5 months after finishing radiation.
Hi Amy, thank you for your lovely feedback and I hope you can get your rib pain resolved. I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Jen as always great & helpful information.
Thanks so much Ros! Appreciate your feedback xx Jen
I was diagnosed with breast cancer 11/22, lumpectomy 1/23, followed by radiation for 6 weeks. I have followed your channel since Feb. '23. I increased my YMCA workouts to 1 hr. 5x/wk right away, and added in all of your exercise recommendations as they applied to me. I also followed Mayo Clinic Mediterranean eating plan and lost 30 lbs. The exercise was key, and still is, for me. I'm also a person of faith which helped me control my fears. Everything has gone so well, and I feel terrific! Your channel gave me so much information and helped me stay positive. Thank you!!!
Hi Jayne! You're doing really well and thank you for your lovely feedback. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Hi Jen!
I’m so thankful for this video!
I am actually in a lot of pain now six months after radiation .
Lots of pain when deep breathing, I’m doing the self massage and it works .
Please continue the excellent work !
So glad to hear this is working for you Michelle! Love it! Jen x
Firstly, let me say that all your videos, Jen, are simply amazing. I find something (usually MANY things) of value in each and every one I watch! You are providing an invaluable service to all breast cancer patients!! I live in Canada and although my treatments have been excellent, you are right when you say that radiation fibrosis is just not discussed at length in the cancer clinic, so THANK YOU! Also, I just downloaded the book you mentioned, and can’t wait to read it. (I would have ordered a physical copy but there is no shipping to Canada). Keep up the amazing content, you ROCK!!
Awwww! Thank you for such positive feedback!! Very appreciative of your comments and so stoked the info is of value to you! Jen :) xx
@@TheBreastCancerPhysio. No you put the person into the hospital and you give them pain management and you get nurses over here to rub it and do whatever you’re supposed to do is the amount of pain that I have you act like it’s nothing no problem because you haven’t been through it.
Thank you!! Same exact pain/tenderness 6 months after radiation. Your explanation and helpful videos are greatly appreciated!!
My pleasure! Thank you for the lovely feedback. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you so much for bringing this issue up, I had this exact problem for 10 days now. I am five months post RT and I have not slept for 10 days as I am terrified I have now lung cancer. I have no idea why this type of side effect is not discussed, I am seeing my team this week but I so wish that I was aware that this could have happened to me. Thank you.
Hi! Thank you for your lovely feedback. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you so much! I just found your video and feel relieved. (Just started massaging the area and already feels better!)
Fantastic to hear Lisa! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you so much for this!! My mind was going to so many different places.
My pleasure Paola, I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you for this information! My medical team has not been able to explain why I have this pain, I had an US done just to be on the safe side and everything looked fine. This makes a lot of sense to me as it has only been 4 months since I finished radiation, the rib pain is on the same side as my radiation and exactly in the area you describe in your video. I plan to try the self massage to see if it will resolve. Your videos look amazing, I can’t wait to watch the ones that pertain to my issues ❤️
Thank you for your lovely feedback Julia! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Looking forward to hearing about the book
So sorry for my slow reply Tona! I would LOVE to write a book but am holding off this project until I have a little bit more spare time. Thankyou so much for your support! Jen
Mine began soon afyer my first lumpectomy. I suspected too tight of the post-surgery bra for too long but I'm 5 weeks out of my 2nd lumpectomy now and it's the same. I'll try the massage. Thank you for the video!
H Becky, sorry for my slow reply and thank you for your lovely feedback! I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you so much for this video!!
I just started having this pain. I finished radiation on October 18 and it feels just like you have described. I contacted my radiation oncologist and my regular oncologist. Waiting to hear back from both. However I will definitely try the self massage. Thank you.
Thanks for your feedback LaShawn. I hope this works for you but always good to check in with your Medical Team. Jen x
Hi Dr. J. It's almost a year since my surgery. I never had chemo nor radiation and everything is doing fine. My problem is maybe minor: I still have some tightness and pain under the right armpit, usually more prominent at night (Does silicone scar sheets work?) My breast bone hurts a lot. I think it's inflamed. Also, why fat around the scar does not spread out. It seems like there is a hollow space between the scar and skin. Not sure if this is normal. I do a lot of massages as you suggested and thank you, my mobility is fine, almost perfect. It's just like I'm getting fatter on the right side of my armpit than the left, including my right arm, which is still numb. Thank you. I hope I'm making sense.
I am in my 6th chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment but i am experiencing this same exact pain. I get nervous daily thinking it might be my cancer spreading. But your video has been so helpful 🙌🏼🎀
I have found myofacial release to be much more helpful than exercises and PT.
I actually have this pain before I begin radiation (starting radiation in 4 weeks). I’ve had single left mastectomy with full axillary clearance and just at the end of 6 months chemo. My lymphedema physio said the same as you, that it’s intercostal rib pain, and is doing some stretches and massage to help it.
This is exactly me! I'm on 18 of 30 radiation and ribs are very sore. Thank you for such informative videos!
You're very welcome Lisa, glad this video resonated with you! Jen
Hi Jen,
Thank you so very much for sharing information.
I don’t have pain, but I am puffy on the right side of my ribs just now, 4 weeks after dm. Also, I am having sensation in my middle, ring, & pinky fingers on my right hand.
Hi! Thanks for your comments. The swelling on the rib will be normal at this stage if you're only 4 weeks following surgery. The sensations in the fingers are possibly nerve irritation which should also settle down but keep your medical team updated. I now have a Private Group on Facebook - The Compass Community - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions. I will be able to provide more interaction on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
@@TheBreastCancerPhysio
Thank you so much for responding.
Heya, great video...I actually had a lumpectomy about 4 weeks ago, and I am actually having this issue and I haven't had radiation yet. Massaging area definitely helps though
Hi Margret! Yes massaging post lumpectomy will help with the scar tissue forming from surgery. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Jen I am a first timer for your site. I really enjoyed this video. You mentioned that rib pain can occur after radiation. I am just in the middle of my treatment. I am experiencing rib pain and shoulder pain. Difficult to take a deep breath. I am receiving treatment on my stomach because it is the left breast and I had open heart surgery in December. Could my position on the table be the cause of my pain? Thank you, Darlene
Hi Darlene! Thanks for your lovely feedback. I've launched a new Private Group on Facebook - The Compass Community - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions. I will be able to answer your questions and provide more interaction with everyone on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I am trying to find the book you talk about, The Exercise Prescription. I couldn’t find it on Amazon. Please tell me authors as it is difficult to understand what you said on the video.
When you say it takes a couple sessions to deal with the intercostal pain, does that mean it’s resolved? I started the massage you suggested and I feel quite sore. Maybe more sore. It’s mostly along where my bra would hit under my radiated breast and wrapping around the side a little. It’s tender to the touch.
I’be been dealing with this pain 3 months after proton radiation right now. Pain mgmt doc calls it intercostal neuralgia and suggests nerve block then if it works ablation of the nerve. Hope it works!!
I am mid way through 27 rads treatment on R side and have just started to feel rib pain on R side - feels like I’ve been hit by a hard ball! Have you heard of others experiencing the condition during treatment? I will try your massage & discuss with my nurse tomorrow. Thank you
Hi Christine, thanks for your question. I haven't heard of this occurring during treatment, so discuss it with your Nurse and / or Radiation Oncologist prior to attempting any massage. Jen
Could also be from protecting my rib cage as I have a large abscess at the top of my liver that presses against my lungs - it’s not infected now / I had major liver surgery last year so I’ve been protective of abdomen R side so maybe that is a contributor
Hi Christine, that could be a possibility. If your symptoms have recently changed definitely discuss it with your Medical Team so a diagnosis of why you have pain can be provided and appropriate treatment recommended. Jen
I had bilateral mastectomies but no radiation. I do have pain or discomfort over my ribs in the areas you mentioned. I also have it below the Scars on my side/back also.
Hi Alynda, thanks for raising this point. There is the possibility that rib pain could be caused by tight tissue / scar tissue from the surgery itself, as opposed to radiation scarring. You can certainly trial intercostal muscle massage and see if that reduces your pain. Jen
I also have rib pain a yr after mastectomy. I did not need radiation tho.ijust thot this was a normal thing so glad to hear massage may help. Thank you for covering so many areas that we just dont know to ask about.
I had bilateral mastectomy w implants (no radiation) but rib pain as you described - soreness to touch only and stretching with side bends. I'm so happy to see your video and will try foam roller! Thank you!!
I had radiation 4 months ago, developed frozen shoulder shortly after. Physio showed me to exercise by lifting affected arm with the help of good arm. I was feeling some pull and tightness around the breast or scar to be exact. I even felt a lump after lifting my arm multiple times. I rested the next day and getting better since but did feel rib cage pain. Thanks for fantastic sharing.
Thanks for your positive feedback Ivy! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Could I ask you to share the tecnique the physio therapist showed you? I have a frozen sholder after mastectomy/radiation, but I’ve never heard of this even though I see my physio therapist regularly. Thank you.
@@hegeskoghus763 it's just simple arm lifting, but made easier when the good arm holds the wrist of the affected arm to lift. I find that time and patience work better than any exercise
@@ivyy9875 Thank you 😊
O glad we can give info to help some can't afford to go to physio,s it's all cist and if you aren't working it's money needed for food,,ect
I can't seem to find this book that you mention.... "The Exercise Prescription" listed anywhere, is it out of print now? Do you have a link that I can buy it?
Hi Johanna, here is the link to the book: www.cancerexerciseprogram.com.au/
Could you put that at top so I can get my sons to order it I won't find it later ,,,chemo / gumpy old age so I'm told. All stay well,,
Two and a half years after radiotherapy on my right side where I had 2 lymph nodes removed during a lumpectomy. I have a twisting pain in the muscles when I twist or bend backwards using those muscles, it is debilitating until I masssage the area.
Thanks you have explained this so well , but one question I’ve had a licap procedure is it the same massage as my whole breast feels hard after radiotherapy
Hi Anna, as long as you are beyond the initial healing stages of the LICAP procedure (6 weeks+) and have clearance from your Medical Team to commence firm massage, then yes, the technique would be the same. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Hi Jen, I'm recovering from inflammatory breast cancer, non-metastatic as per several ongoing CT scans though positive in armpit lymph nodes. Because of the aggressive nature of my cancer type I was given a higher dose of radiation. Several months later I developed severe back pain especially in the mid spine and upper right quadrant. Last month a CT scan showed many subacute rib fractures in six ribs (2nd through 7th ribs) which the radiologist described as having typical appearance of radiation induced osteitis. I realize my case is unusual but just letting you know this can happen. Kind regards from the US.
Hi, thank you for sharing your story and yes this can happen albeit not common. I've had a few patients with rib fractures in the aftermath of radiation - extremely painful. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I cannot find the link for The Exercise Prescription book. Can you re-post?
Thank you so very much for your channel.
I have rib pain after lumpectomy and radiation.
I saw the doctor and she said, without even checking it, that it was not my rib. Now,
pain/tenderness still persists, and there is a bump to the right of the surgical scar on rib. Doctor recognized bump is present, but said wait for mammogram. I have dense, category C breasts and also diagnosed with over 25% risk factor.
Doctor said since she cannot feel anything in breast tissue, she will not order any procedures, as bump is on rib by surgical scar.
I had two tumors, one discovered by M.R.I. before surgery, one I felt, and mammogram found.
Should I feel okay about getting a second opinion?
The surgery was over 4 years ago.
I just want reassurance there has been no recurrence.
I have been using the method you demonstrate
self-massage for lymphedema in upper arm.
It has helped.
I appreciate your calmness and really soothing voice as you explain things.
I have swelling (burning/stinging) if I do any lifting or yardwork, though only 4 lymph nodes were removed. Then for a few days, it hurts to move my arm upward, and feels like it's being punched.
I have constant swelling in armpit.
They always say, wait until next mammogram.
At the pre-op, the surgeon said "there was one tumor and the mammogram found it."
They did not document what they had said, one tumor the size of a peanut in upper breast, and one the size of a marble on pectoral muscle.
It has caused me a lot of anxiety, and a feeling of betrayal and bafflement.
Thank you again for addressing subjects such as lymphatic massage and rib pain. It's very informative and beneficial.
A new law may be passed next year named "Find it Early." This would benefit women with dense breasts, ad they would be able to get another procedure for free besides the mammogram.
Hi Cheryle, I am so sorry to hear your story. I would definitely seek a second opinion. Your symptoms sound like that of scar tissue but it is always good to get a Medical opinion and follow-up scans for your own reassurance. If you'd like to do a Telehealth appointment with me to go over your situation in more detail and have a treatment plan created then please email me enquiries@thebreastcancerphysio.com
Jen
Thank you soo much for this Dr. Gen. My pain started a yr after treatment, right after I started breastfeeding. I'm not breastfeeding with the radiated breast. Is it normal please?
Hi Laila, thanks for your question. Is the rib pain on your radiated side? I've launched a new Private Group on Facebook - The Compass Community - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions. I will be able to answer questions and provide more interaction with everyone on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I had a bilateral mystectomy nine months ago no chemo radiation wss needed and my right rib cage area is tender to touch I had stage zero on the right side but I also had problems with A wound drain infection on right and wound dehscience at the right incision site I have mentioned it to the breast surgeon.And the oncologist and they seem to think that it Fibrosis, but it still worries me.
Thank you, I really struggle wearing a bra because of rib pain, I’ll try massage
Hi, sorry for my slow reply. Thank you for your lovely feedback! I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I’m 5 years out. I had several different kinds of chemo and 28 rounds of radiation.
The
I have what feels like a stabbing muscle cramp when I move in a certain position. It is very painful. It is the same area where the drain was placed after having 17 lymph nodes removed.
It’s pretty scary. I had a mammogram 3 weeks ago and no signs of cancer but I’m still worried. I had both her2 positive and triple negative.
Any advice?
Hello, I was wondering if you can advise? I had double mastectomy. I decided not to do reconstruction. On my right side I had 3 surgeries prior mastectomy because they couldn’t clear the margins and then I had chemo and after, I had radiation on my right side only.
This was 2018. Ever since then I have what I described as muscle spasm on my right side only. They come and go… I do feel like my rib area hurts. Have you heard of this before? Is it because the nerves are damaged? My doctor tells me is normal specially after cancer treatment but just wanted to ask if you heard of this like “muscle spasms” feeling on the side you got radiation. Thank you for your time.
Hi, from my clinical experience I would say your symptoms are very normal, but I can also explain more about the treatment options available for your symptoms. It is not so much nerve damage as it is the effect of radiation fibrosis (or scarring). I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I had 25 rounds of radiation last year that completed in 02/23 on my left side. In September 2023 I began to experience what feels like Muscle spasms in my left side rib cage. It feels like a Charlie horse like you would I have gotten in my calf but in my left rib cage. It’s painful and makes it difficult to breathe. Could this be what you are talking about?
Thank you so much for this info. I still experience rib pain 3 years after radiation. Is this normal?
Hi, thanks for your question. Yes, rib pain can be persistent following radiation but to be sure it is from radiation I would see your Medical Team to confirm this. They can do ultrasounds / other tests to make sure nothing else is causing the rib pain. Have you been able to see a Physio / Physical Therapist to treat this area?
I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Thank you so much, I have joined the group, waiting for approval 🙏🏼🌸
I still have pain when I twist or bend a certain way. I went back 18 months after the surgery and the breast surgeon said it was nothing to worry about and it was caused by scaring caused by going under the ribs during surgery
I would like some help ,had surgery a year ago . No other treatment . How can i reduce the swelling at the back of my arm ?.
What if it is occurring on the side not radiated..the left (had DMX with b/l lymph node dissection-axillary on the right side and sentinel on left, right side radiated)?
Hi Joanna, so sorry for my delayed reply. If rib pain is occurring on the opposite side to where radiation was done, it may still be intercostal muscle tension, as following a bilateral mastectomy and lymph node removal, there is a chance your rib cage is stiff / tight on both sides. However, if it would be sensible to arrange scans through your doctor to double check everything is ok / or look for another cause. I hope this helps. Jen
Hello. My mother had a left mastectomy in May 2021. She did 6 cycles of chemo and was then put on letrozole. In December 2022 she did an MRI that show lesions in her spine vertebrae. She did a PET CT scan after 1 month but that didnt showed anything serious. NO LESIONS. Her oncologist asked her to have the zelodronic injection every 3 months. She did 2 so far.. We did the tumour marker test and all were below the range and even her calcium is under control. However since a few weeks she had been complaining about rib pain. What could be the causes? Thank you for replying back 🙏
Hi Ramsurrun, in the absence of metastatic lesions there are many causes for rib pain but the most common ones among women with Breast Cancer are intercostal muscle tension (muscles between the ribs) following radiation treatment, cording, soft tissue tension, scar tissue tension and rib cage stiffness. I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Letrosol can have pain side effects
Check for all med side effects
I have breast cancer which had spread to my spine. I had the mastectomy of my right breast and am currently trying to heal before undergoing radiation treatments but I had been dealing with rib pain for a month now. The pain is sharp and piercing, especially at night and keeps me getting proper sleep. I thought it was gas pains but I’m wondering if the tumor had spread to that area?
Hi Chickitie34, if you have metastatic breast cancer, then you first need to check if the rib pain is bony metastases. If scans show there is no rib metastases then we can discuss potential treatment options. Jen
hello l have been in hospito so new l'have cheste pain what should l do please
I am 12 years post radiation on my left breast and my ribs are still so sore I can barely touch them. I have random pain on that side all the time. Also my scar from surgery (lumpectomy ) is still so tender.
Hi Mindy, thanks for commenting. I'm so sorry to hear your have chronic pain. Have you ever had it treated by a Physio? Jen
I'm undergoing chemo treatment, and I've noticed skin shedding and excessive moisture in the undercarriage of my breasts and my tummy folds. It is a bit raw due to the excessive skin shedding and moisture. I also recently started having rib pain, which radiates from the back shoulder blade. My former chiropractor called it a slipped rib. I've been using a brace to keep it snug as I've had a tendency to cough, which causes more pain in the area. I use a rolled up sweatshirt under the affected shoulder and rib while I lay down as it seems to help putting a little pressure on the little area under the shoulder blade. My question is whether or not these occurrences, which seem to be more prevalent in those undergoing radiation is just as likely for someone like me, who is only undergoing chemo treatment? I'm scheduled to see my Dr this week, but as I've tried to research common issues related to chemo treatment and how to resolve them, the only information I seem to find is regarding radiation being the cause of such ailments. I'm worried that it may be some sort of infection because I can't seem to fix it. My last CT scan a few weeks ago, my Dr stated that I'm doing well and I'm responding to treatment, so these issues are of concern for me. Thank you in advance if there may be any suggestions you may offer ahead of my Dr's appointment. I realize you may not respond since this video has been out for a year
Hi, thanks for your comment. Did you have surgery prior to your chemotherapy? I'm wondering if your symptoms are at least in part due to surgical scarring. Sorry for my delayed reply! Jen
Can you get massages to help perhaps scar tissue ask you're surgeon oncologist,,,you have too help put you're mind at rest
Where can I get the book ? I’m in USA thank you
Hi Brenda, here is the link to the website for the book. Not sure if you can purchase this from the US but give it a try. www.cancerexerciseprogram.com.au/
I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Hello there, i am out of Cancer treatment 5 years now, it included radiation. I have a rib pain for quite some time now, is it possible pain at the side of rib and the back ribs can occur also some years after treatment?
Hi, thanks for your comment. When did the rib and back pain start? If it was some years following treatment I would first speak to your Medical Team confirm it is nothing sinister.
Can this kind of pain be like a bruise, worsening with touch? Or a different pain?
Hi Andrea, sorry for my slow reply and thanks for your question. Typically there is no bruising but it certainly could feel like a deep bruise from what my patients have described. Others describe it as sharp. I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
The help we need sounds like you are going to be a life saver for people across the world ,,, thank you,,,
Can you have the pain many years after radiation? My mother had 2B Breast cancer. 11 years later, she is suddenly having sharp rib pain.
Hope you get help ,, soon, could I ask is you're mum around my age ,,,65_70 , or younger
Hi, if sharp rib pain has suddenly started I would have it investigated. I suggest making an appointment with your Doctor and having scans to investigate the rib pain. It is not usual for the effects of radiation to start causing symptoms 11 years later.
I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
After breast cancer treatment why patient have body pain and stomach swells . And how to cure this please a video for this question
Hi, I'm sorry I can't help answer your question - I would highly recommend you return to your doctor to have an assessment as to why your have pain and swelling in your stomach. I suggest you request scans to help confirm why you have these symptoms. Jen
What if you didn’t have radiation And have sharp stabbing pain’s occasionally
Hi Linda, sorry for my slow reply. I would suspect your rib pains / sharp pains are possibly from scar tissue, depending on where you feel the pain. I've launched a Private Group on Facebook 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions and Q&A. There is much more interaction on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Hi Linda, I had the same question. Three months since my bilateral mastectomy and I suddenly have pain and tightness at the top of my rib. It is on the side where I had lymph nodes removed, no radiation. It feels as though I bumped into something, but no bruising.
It hurt like hell. Like somebody hit my rib cage with crowbar.
Hi Manoj, I am hearing you. It can be very painful! I've launched a new Private Group on Facebook - The Compass Community - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions. I will be able to provide more interaction with everyone on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
After raditaion she started rib pain in 3 weeks
Hi Rameez, I've launched a new Private Group on Facebook - The Compass Community - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with free weekly live education sessions. I will be able to provide more interaction with everyone on this platform. If you would like to join please click on this link: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
What if I didn’t have radiation and have this pain
Hi, thanks for your question and sorry for my slow reply. What treatment did you have for your Breast Cancer? I.e. surgery, chemotherapy etc. This information will help me answer your question.
I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
I would’ve never done it if I was told the truth doctor do not tell the truth. Why didn’t the doctors tell us that it was gonna be this painful
What if you have that rib pain before you radiation?
Hi Jessica, if the rib pain was present prior to radiation and it is affecting you I would discuss this with your Doctor and request further investigation. Jen
I had a bilateral mastectomy to flat and I keep getting rib pain on both sides ; no radiation.
If it puts youre mind at rest why not,, wont they send you for a scan ask for one , it could be better had she explained why she wasnt worried,,..
Could you put the ca er exercise code to at top so I can get my sons to order it for me, a great Christmas pressi , going to send your utube to others that are struggling,, thanks so much, full of info
Cancer excersize book,
Hi Lyn, thank you for your feedback. All Breast Cancer patients are welcome to request scans if they need reassurance nothing nasty is going on with the rib pain.
I have a Private Facebook Group called 'The Compass Community' - a global online Breast Cancer Education & Support Network with weekly live education sessions and Q&A. I will be able to assist you more on this platform. Here is the link if you would like to join: facebook.com/groups/breastcancercompasscommunity
Hi Lyn, was I referring to a book about cancer and exercise? Can you jog my memory and I will send you the link! Jen
No, it’s downright painful where you cry you cannot sit down you’re in that much pain because I had lung radiation. It feels like your ribs were pulled out or you were stabbed you’re acting like it’s not that bad of a situation and it’s an emergency you need to stay in the hospital.
Please include lung radiation as well. Everything is always about breast cancer. Mine started after lung radiation.
You keep saying it’s radiation radiation 🙄I don’t had radiation 🙄so I don’t think it’s nothing about radiations.
I had 25 rounds of radiation last year that completed in 02/23 on my left side. In September 2023 I began to experience what feels like Muscle spasms in my left side rib cage. It feels like a Charlie horse like you would I have gotten in my calf but in my left rib cage. It’s painful and makes it difficult to breathe. Could this be what you are talking about?