elderly post mastectomy

[urmi121]

i am new here, 80 years with right mastectomy done 1 month ago, the scar feels uncomfortable, and have been planned to RT, the tattoo marks for RT also pains, i was told that i will have to hold my arms abducted for around 15 min during RT, but my arms don't go that far.....what to do?

[LeslieVa]

The exposure for the Radiation Treatment lasts only about a minute. I am sure the Radiation techs have dealt with A poor shoulder movement before. You will do just fine. It's a very quick treatment.

[IGotSunshine]

Hi urmi121, Maybe some physical therapy would ease the discomfort of your scar and give you greater range of motion? I had a few sessions after my mastectomy and continued with exercises on my own and was able to regain full range of motion. What does the radiation therapist say you should do?

[hs1942]

Older women are not always given radiation. It depends alot on how aggressive your cancer is and how healthy you are. You might want to get a second opinion on whether you need radiation. If you have an early estrogen receptor positive tumor you might not. Check out the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Since you had a mastectomy and not a lumpectomy you may not fit into the low risk category.

[terryakhenry]

The radiation people I worked with were all very kind and supportive. I am sure they will work with you. Talk with your doctor about your concerns and especially your radiation oncologist. Mine was fantastic and was always there for me