Nerve damage associated with scar tissue can lead to pain, a loss of sensation and even a change in function and movement.
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Nerves could get stuck in the scar as it is forming. When you then move and the scar is pulled it pulls the nerve and this can lead to tingling, numbness or pain.
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Sometimes nerves do not regenerate properly and you can lose sensation or feel odd sensations.
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Loss of sensation can affect how we move and do all the things associated with daily life.
If you are still under the care of your medical team please make sure you are following the care plan they have set up for you.
What will help minimise scar pain?
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Moving around and using gentle stretch exercises can help improve the resilience and integrity of the scar tissue and improve your overall mobility. You can seek the advice of a movement therapist who can guide you. A scar can be remodelling itself for quite a long time. Patience and persistence are required.
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Scar massage will help improve the tissue and reduce the tension and pull on the nerves. It is definitely worth seeing a specialist scar therapist who will not only treat the scar they will show you how to do work at home and how to start to desensitise the area. Advice on products will also usually be given as the correct lotion can make a huge difference.
Ultimately we want the nerves to be free to glide in the tissue. Take a hold of your top at chest height, perhaps near your left shoulder. Twist it and hold it tight. Now try to lift your arm out to the side or above your head. You will notice your movement is restricted. Now imagine that a nerve is stuck in this.
Imagine any of these. If your calf muscle is affected you might trip as you have less control of the foot or less power when walking or playing sport. There might be numbness, tingling or shooting pain in the arm, chest or shoulder after breast surgery.
Most loss of feeling will resolve in a few months but it can take much longer.
In some cases nerve pain meds, steroid injection or anti-inflammatories might be suggested and in extreme cases surgery.
