Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Lymphedema Questions concerning Lymphatic obstruction or blockage of the lymph nodes. |
484 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2/23/2011 | I was diagnosed with 3A ILC and had 9 lymph nodes removed with 5 being positive for cancer. They were not matted. I am having trouble with my shoulder on the side where my lymph nodes were removed and after having an MRI it was determined that I have tendenitis and bursitis in that shoulder. My ortho is recommending I have a cortisone injection to help with the inflammation and pain. I don't have Lymphedema right now but am concerned that an injection in this shoulder/arm might increase my chances of developing it. Should I avoid having the injection or do you think it would be safe to have it? Thank you, in advance for your answer. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 2/24/2011 | One of the challenges is what to do and not to do in these kinds of situations. Usually patients get treated for whatever their ailment is because it is disrupting their quality of life which shoulder pain certainly would do. And of course not all people develop lymphedema from having injections in their affected arm where axillary node dissection was performed and radiation then followed. What would be beneficial is to have a rehab medicine consultation with a rehab therapist who ALSO is certified as a lymphedema therapist. This is someone skilled in addressing should pain and also in prevention and treatment of lymphedema. Let that person weigh in on a recommendation for you. | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.