Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Muscle pain from radiation treatment months later!

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Carefree, AZ
July 28, 2025
 · 
Be the first to react
MyBCTeam

It's common for radiation therapy to cause ongoing muscle pain and discomfort, even months after treatment has ended. This can include sensations like burning, tingling, shooting pain, or numbness in the chest and underarm areas. Some people may experience these effects for months or even years after treatment.

The pain is Show Full Answer

It's common for radiation therapy to cause ongoing muscle pain and discomfort, even months after treatment has ended. This can include sensations like burning, tingling, shooting pain, or numbness in the chest and underarm areas. Some people may experience these effects for months or even years after treatment.

The pain is often due to nerve damage from the radiation affecting both cancer cells and healthy tissue in the treated area. Many MyBCTeam members have reported experiencing similar long-lasting effects. To help manage ongoing radiation-related pain and discomfort:

• Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles
• Avoid extreme temperatures
• Keep the affected arm elevated when possible
• Take regular rest breaks
• Track your symptoms and energy levels
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare team

Remember that the treated area may remain sensitive for an extended period, so it's important to protect it from sun exposure and wear loose, comfortable clothing.

July 28, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

I had more pain than I expected after radiation so my doctor recommended some additional therapies. Have you told your radiologist about the pain you’re having? It doesn’t sound like it should be this bad. I used lidocaine pads too but also some massaging pads. Eventually the pain subsided.

January 1
A MyBCTeam Member

It has been several months since radiation. I’m in so much pain and my breast is so heavy. I feel like crying 24/7. I get no help at my house. I have to be very careful just texting. I should NOT have had radiation for stage 1. I had an awful Christmas and New Years Eve. Anyone else going thru this. How do you cope? I have been putting a 5% lidocaine patch on the area, but little to no help. I get very little sleep. I’m 69, what a terrible life I have. Sorry if you have already read my complaints.

January 1

Related Questions

View All

Can Radiation treatment affect the ribs and cause pain later sometimes years later.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Oklahoma City, OK
January 8

Can brachial plexus problems start years after radiation therapy?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rochester, NY
July 8

Can Claritin Help With Joint Pain From Breast Cancer Treatment?
12 Tips for Easing Side Effects From Breast Cancer Radiation
Mammogram Radiation: What You Should Know