I had most of my colon removed 7 months ago. I was diagnosed with cancer - thankfully I'm clear - did not need chemo and no further treatment is necessary.. I am doing okay apart from developing this terrible stiffness in all my joints. I'm used to be on the move and quiet fit. I am having private physio - it maybe that after major surgery the body can hold the trauma and the muscles now need strenthening. Has anyone expreinced this - or have any advice they can pass onto me
Thank you for your time
Jean James
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jeanjames
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Dear Jean James - Thank You for your post - I hope we can help you find a way to manage your achey joints - and well done for taking the initiative and keeping active with some private physiotherapy. I'm not a doctor, and can't answer from a medical perspective, but here are some ideas:
If it is muscle tension following surgery, you may find a body work therapy such as massage helpful. Some massage therapists are reluctant to treat people following major surgery and/or a cancer diagnosis. Try the Massage Training Institute who have a list of therapists. Andy Fagg runs a training programme for massage therapists to work with cancer and may have a list of therapists as well.
It might be wise to see your GP, if you haven't done so, just to make sure there isn't something else going on that could be affecting your joints.
It might also be helpful to see a nutritional therapist. If much of your colon has been removed you might want to check that your digestion is working well and you are still absorbing all the nutrients you need. The Bristish Association of Nutritional Therapists is the main registering body and will have a list of practioners.
Finally, have you thought about other kinds of exercise - some people find swimming, or just moving freely in water is a good way to ease joint and muscle pain. You might also think about gentle yoga which could help ease muscle tension and support relaxation more generally. There are many different kinds of yoga, so talk things through with the teacher first to make sure they can meet your needs.
I really hope that helps
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Thank you Sarah - glad you recommended swimming I went to-day. At first my arms were like lead but eventually loosened. My daughter who lives near me is a Yoga Teacher and does advise me on movements. She accompanies me to physio,she 's a great support.
I will take on your advice about nutrients and a further visit to my doctor if things do not improve.
Once again thank- you for your interest and advice.
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