I received a brief explanation. I underwent a sentinel node biopsy, and despite no cancer presence, eight lymph nodes were extracted. Upon complete recovery, I promptly began yoga and pilates sessions four times a week, and fortunately, I haven't encountered cording or lymphoedema. It's alarming how many women are affected, often overlooked by doctors.

I'm 9 years post surgery, chemo and radiation. I started lymphedema in my hand during chemo, and my surgeon told me to have PT beginning a few weeks after surgery for range of motion, followed by PT for lympedema. I've been wearing a sleeve and glove or gauntlet for over 8 years, and a night garment for a year. The latter makes a difference in how quickly my arm fills up, and I wish I'd had it from the beginning! However, I need a round of PT (12 sessions) at least once a year. We have learned to stretch them out after we get good reduction, going from 2x weekly reduction massage and wrapping to 1x monthly maintenance. I have full expectation that this is a life-long condition for me. I don't recall the term cording being used, but I'm sure the lumpiness in the chest and arm are cording as you describe. I'm sorry so many are not made aware to watch for lymphedema and treatment. I'm glad my surgeon was all over it.

Yes, you are absolutely correct. Lymphedema is an ugly reality after surgery and treatment. I highly encourage everyone to see an OT Or PT. Your oncologist can write you a referral.

My breast surgeon in the beginning set me up with a pt that specializes in lympdema theraphy. Yes I had cording afterwards but with the theraphy and me doing the exercises at home now I do not have the cording problem. Every visit I went to she measured BOTH arms in case both arms were swelling. I only had everything done to my left breast surgery etc. Lympdema also can effect other parts of your body. I was also measured right after my lumpectomy etc. by a pt that was called in that specialized in lympdema.

It really amazes me how little about the cause of Lymphedema is known. And how doctors don't really seem to place it of any significant importance. I will never forget my surgeon sitting there and saying ' Lymphedema could happen but then we give you a sleeve and it takes care of it'. That was said after I was on this site for 6 weeks knowing a damn sleeve would not take care of it.
I believe the only reason she told me about it was because she was supposed to.
But after 6 weeks reading about it here, I told her right out, no lymph nodes. Period. Only Sentinel nodes .
I never did get lymphedema and I do understand it could still happen.