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I'm having a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy soon. It will be on my dominant right side. I still work what about pain and full ROM

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Wilmington, DE
February 22
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A MyBCTeam Member

Be sure to ask for a referral to an OT/PT lymphedema specialist. I met with mine about a week after surgery. She helped so much with post op pain, ROM and lymphedema exercises.
Wishing you well!

February 22
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Suzanne,PT helped me with ROM especially the gentle stretches. It also helped to wear a supportive bra that opens in the front and also tops that opened in the front. All the best to you on your surgery. Let us know how you are doing. Hugs.

February 22
A MyBCTeam Member

I broke my ankle several months ripe to my lumpectomy, so the lumpectomy wasn’t that bad. It took about two weeks to regain my full range of motion after surgery.

February 27
A MyBCTeam Member

I have a PT certified in breast cancer recovery and lymphedema. I started with her prior to surgery doing light strength and stretching. She is wonderful and offers in office therapy on a schedule that works for you or gives you your exercises and checks in once a week to see if you want to come in for a checkup. I have radiation induced lymphedema in my breast and she's seeing me once a week now until it gets better. Also showed me how to massage effectively. Definitely look into a PT. They can change your world - well at least your mood😊💕💕

February 23
MyBCTeam

What can you expect regarding pain and range of motion after a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy on your dominant side while working?

Most people experience some discomfort after a lumpectomy, but it's generally manageable. You might feel tenderness or brief, shooting pains in your breast, chest, or arm as nerves heal Show Full Answer

What can you expect regarding pain and range of motion after a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy on your dominant side while working?

Most people experience some discomfort after a lumpectomy, but it's generally manageable. You might feel tenderness or brief, shooting pains in your breast, chest, or arm as nerves heal. This typically improves within a few weeks.

Pain can be controlled with:
* Prescription medications from your care team
* Over-the-counter medicines (as recommended by your doctor)
* Ice packs applied in short intervals

Recovery time varies, but most people return to normal activities within two weeks. Some take longer depending on whether lymph nodes were removed and individual healing. Since you're having a sentinel node biopsy, the extent of lymph node removal will affect your recovery timeline.

For your dominant arm, you may experience temporary limitations in range of motion. As nerves heal, you might feel tenderness or shooting pains in the arm area. It's important to follow your care team's instructions about gradually resuming activities.

Consider discussing with your doctor:
* When you can safely return to work
* Any temporary work modifications you might need
* Specific exercises to maintain or restore range of motion
* Signs of complications to watch for, like excessive swelling or infection

Many people find wearing a supportive sports bra helps with comfort during recovery.

February 22

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