So, it's interesting to read this and relate to some of my symptoms, even though I did not have RT, only a neck dissection. My neck, especially on the left side (where the dissection was done) feels very stiff and aches at times, although I try to do my stretching exercises regularly, In addition, I get the worst cramps under my chin especially when I've done a lot of physical exercise or am tired. And occasionally, I get a very weird shooting pain up the back of my head - not as often but I sure know it when it happens! I put it all down to both scar tissue and nerve damage from the ND... Have asked my docs about it but they have no other suggestions to help besides what I'm already doing. But I agree, it's a small price to pay if I remaing healthy and cancer free!

That would make sense, particularly if you had a pectoral flap since it is used mainly for bulking up the area and adds no useful function. Nerve damage can also cause muscle malfunction.

I get a regular neck cramp, sometimes several a day but at least 5 or more a week. I also get a tingling that runs down one or both of my arms. Physical Therapy helped my range of motion and strength but hasn't ended these cramps. They are painful and normally only stop when I lay down and take all pressure off my neck. They sometimes come in the front of my neck but also in the back. I have had both sides of my neck dissected and radiation to both sides. I have a massage or two a month to help which does help. I am thinking of starting Yoga to see if that helps.

If anyone has any idea of how to stop these cramps I am all ears.

Chuck,

You had 3 separate rounds of IMRT? Same areas? That's a first around this site!!

Congrats on beating this crap 4 times.

Wow 3x IMRT !

Not sure if this is relevant I get neck cramps (under the chin once in a while). These generally pass quickly and seem to some extent tied to cold(er) temperatures. Well if you can call Atlanta cold....

M