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My last radiation session was May 24th.. Why does my breast still feel sore?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gurnee, IL
September 29
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around the question of why breast soreness continues after radiation, with many sharing that pain, tightness, and stabbing... Read more

Members rallied around the question of why breast soreness continues after radiation, with many sharing that pain, tightness, and stabbing sensations can last for years due to scar tissue and nerve damage. Several members offered practical tips including using a handheld massager, self-massage, Epsom salt soaks, and requesting a referral to a certified lymphedema physical therapist who can use ultrasound to break up scar tissue. A recurring theme was reassurance that ongoing discomfort is common and does not necessarily mean cancer has returned.

MyBCTeam

It's completely understandable to wonder why soreness is lingering after finishing radiation — and the good news is that this is very common. Most short-term side effects, including soreness and tenderness, can take around four to eight weeks to fully go away after treatment ends. Here are a few reasons why soreness may Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to wonder why soreness is lingering after finishing radiation — and the good news is that this is very common. Most short-term side effects, including soreness and tenderness, can take around four to eight weeks to fully go away after treatment ends. Here are a few reasons why soreness may still be hanging around:

- Skin and tissue healing — Radiation affects the skin and underlying tissue, and healing takes time even after treatment stops
- Nerve sensitivity — Radiation can cause nerve damage, leading to sensitivity, pain, or tingling in the chest area
- Swelling (edema) — Some breast swelling from radiation can persist for a while after treatment ends

A MyBCTeam member shared that even years after treatment, new pains would pop up — so it's always worth keeping your care team in the loop.

If the soreness feels severe, is getting worse, or is accompanied by redness or swelling, it's a good idea to reach out to your doctor sooner rather than later. They can help rule out anything that needs attention and reassure you about what's normal healing.

September 29
A MyBCTeam Member

I had stabbing pains in my chest for six months after radiation. It was my scar tissue settling.

October 2
A MyBCTeam Member

@MaryHess

There are some of those massagers on Amazon too. But they are a bit more perhaps starting at $10.
Try googling for some. online which can be shipped to you.

September 30
A MyBCTeam Member

I never had chemo or radiation, but I’m three years out from TNBC double mastectomy. Pain is just a part of life now. I’m by myself and do things I shouldn’t. Then a hot tub of water with Epson salts is wonderful.

October 5 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Mine still hurts a year after rads. Scar tissue. They each blame the other, onco and rad, with no help on scarring.

September 30

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