Pain after lobectomy (lung cancer) surgery: When will it go away?

Posted by allstaff @allstaff, Feb 21 8:00am

Two months out from lower left lobectomy and just started to feel better when pain started again all around the incision area and upper part of back and spine area. Almost like a stinging sensation. I have read this could happen. Has anyone experienced this?

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jannam | @jannam | Feb 25 10:07am

In reply to @babs1956 "Seven years ago I had my upper left lung removed. I’m still having pain. Will this..." + (show)

😘 I don’t think so…… I had a VAT surgery done on each lung in 2020 and I still have constant nerve pain.
Gabapentin combined with Cymbalta manages the pain very well! I hate being on medications for the rest of my life.
Are you taking anything for pain?

jannam | @jannam | Feb 25 10:09am

In reply to @denzie "Does it feel like you're wearing a bra 3 or 4 sizes too small or thicker..." + (show)

I experience the same after having a VAT surgery on both Lungs in 2020.

babs1956 | @babs1956 | Feb 25 10:29am

In reply to @jannam "I experience the same after having a VAT surgery on both Lungs in 2020." + (show)

both lungs I’m so very sorry you must be in a lot of pain

babs1956 | @babs1956 | Feb 25 10:31am

In reply to @jannam "😘 I don’t think so…… I had a VAT surgery done on each lung in 2020..." + (show)

No, I don’t take anything. I try to do everything natural. I’m glad the medication‘s helping you are you sure you have to take that medication the rest of your life ?

denzie | @denzie | Feb 25 11:08am

In reply to @babs1956 "Yes, that is the best way to describe it. A bra way too small but it’s..." + (show)

My surgery was October 2011, so a bit over 13 years. It has much diminished in the last 5 years or so.

denzie | @denzie | Feb 25 11:21am

In reply to @jannam "😘 I don’t think so…… I had a VAT surgery done on each lung in 2020..." + (show)

It took a few years but eventually I tapered off the gabapentin. For breakthrough pain I use a Norco- an Rx of 30 lasts me 6-8 months. I also have pain from collapsed vertebrae that healed wrong or I might use it less.

Remember, we are the patients for whom these meds were developed. Pain causes interference with healing rest. You don't have to be on them forever.

If there is a Livestrong program at your local YMCA ask your oncologist about clearance to participate. The trainers have extra education to help them modify exercise especially for your needs. I found that strengthening the muscles that hold the ribs in place and support breathing helped me reduce my pain meds.
Best hopes!

babs1956 | @babs1956 | Feb 25 12:11pm

In reply to @denzie "It took a few years but eventually I tapered off the gabapentin. For breakthrough pain I..." + (show)

Thank you so much I work out six days a week and it feels a little bit better when I get the burning sensation I put frankincense on my stomach and it feels a little bit better. I noticed when I lay around and do nothing that’s when it hurts I just hope the tightness goes away And the burning I’m so glad you’re doing well

babs1956 | @babs1956 | Feb 25 12:13pm

In reply to @denzie "My surgery was October 2011, so a bit over 13 years. It has much diminished in..." + (show)

That is such great news. I hope mine diminishes too. Thank you so much.

Lisa, Volunteer Mentor | @lls8000 | Feb 25 1:24pm

In reply to @babs1956 "Seven years ago I had my upper left lung removed. I’m still having pain. Will this..." + (show)

Hi @babs1956, Welcome to Mayo Connect. It looks like you've received some great suggestions. There is a recent discussion that may be applicable too:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/had-lobectomy-in-2020-still-having-radiating-severe-nerve-pain/
I will be interested to hear about your call with the nurse on Monday. Unfortunately, many people have ongoing pain after lung surgery, seven years is a long time to put up with this pain and discomfort.
Have you been cancer free all this time?