 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: May 2002 Posts: 2,152 | I have had two neck dissections,, one each side, 4 years apart. The first one, I went back to work after 8 days and didn't start PT until 4 weeks after the surgery. I paid for it with severe back pain until they got my shoulder realigned.
The second time, I started PT as soon as I got home and never had any pain. I strongly recommend a good PT.
In the meantime, I suggest supporting your under the elbow with your other hand while walking so it doesn't drag on your shoulder. Also make certain your chair has arms and you have a pillow or something under it whne sitting someplace like the sofa or car. Anything to reduce the drag until you start getting your strength back.
Take care and hope you ar feeling better.
Eileen
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Aug 1997 unknown primary, Stage III
mets to 1 lymph node in neck; rt ND, 36 XRT rad
Aug 2001 tiny tumor on larynx, Stage I total laryngectomy; left ND
June 5, 2010 dx early stage breast cancer
June 9, 2011 SCC 1.5 cm hypo pharynx, 70% P-16 positive, no mets, Stage I
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