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I finished radiation on 2/23. I’ve had a seroma where my lymph nodes were removed since surgery. Since finishing radiation my seroma feels more sensitive and prominent which I’ve read is common. But now I’m having shooting pains in that area as well as painful pinching like feelings on the skin of my underarm. Is this to be expected?
Sorry to hear this. Definitely contact your Dr. Which one? Good question. Typically, your Medical Oncologist will be leading your care. I would start there. I would anticipate that between surgery, radiation and the seroma that is precipitating the pain. Sharing this information of when it started, what it feels like, looks like and anything more is important with your medical team. Getting this specifically documented in your medical record is helpful.
Sending positive vibes out to you.
If you haven't already done so, please contact your doctors office and let them know what you're experiencing. I had a hematoma after surgery last year which resulted in an additional surgery to remove and then I ended up with a seroma in the same spot. The radiation can irritate the seroma. With my seroma they had to drain it a couple of times which helped.
As far as the shooting pains go, those can show up at any time from immediatiely to years after having surgery or radiation and can be caused by different things. I've had issues with shooting pains in my armpit and chest, along with scar tissue and muscle damage issues, ever since my double mastectomy 9 years ago. The various pains and problems got worse after having 16 lymph nodes removed from my armpit in 2024 followed by chemo and radiation in 2025. Hopefully your doctor can determine the cause and find a solution to help with the sensitive seroma and the shooting and pinching pains ❤️
Is shooting pain and pinching in your underarm after radiation expected?
Yes, these sensations can occur after radiation, especially when you have a seroma in the area. Radiation can cause the seroma to feel harder and more prominent over time, which you're experiencing.
The shooting pains and pinching sensations you're Show Full Answer
Suzannefurrow what does your PT focus on? I’m starting PT on Wednesday.
It sounds like what you are experiencing is normal according to the AI response. I would let the doctor know what is going on just to be sure. I had radiation over 22 years ago so i can't really remember all of the details (which is good). That was back in 2004. I am on my second round of a completely different type of breast cancer so this time I had a SMX. That was in August 2025. I have been going to physical therapy since October (2 times per week) and will continue for as long as my insurance (Medicare) will cover it. I feel so much better after each visit. I do lots of stretching exercises and well as cupping and manual manipulation. Best of luck to you!
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