Connect
← Return to HPV Tonsil cancer: I'm very nervous about chemo and radiation
Discussion
HPV Tonsil cancer: I'm very nervous about chemo and radiation
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (113)Comment receiving replies
I have a question for those of you that have had neck radiation, which is most of us. I'm almost 7 weeks out from my last radiation treatment. I'm having issues with stiffness in my neck. It feels like a moderately strong rubber band running long ways on the cancer side? I also feel stiffness in my jaw on the cancer side? I'm constantly opening my mouth as wide as possible. Is this Radiation Fibrosis? I'm not sure? I've been moving my neck trying to relieve the pulling and it's not really working. I've been also massaging the area with both hands and power massager with somewhat good results, and then it comes right back. The area is hard and not fluid. Is everyone experiencing what I'm describing? Or, is it happening in some and not others? Does it eventually go away or is it here to stay? What has everyone else been doing about it? I've asked my Oncologist about Physical Therapy and he's putting my request in through my insurance. Anyone find something that works? Thanks
Replies to "I have a question for those of you that have had neck radiation, which is most..."
@harleytiger It definitely sounds like Fibrosis. Unfortunately neck issues are a big part of post radiation for many of us. I didn't have it in my jaw, just the neck. I'm 16 months post treatment, 35 rounds and my neck is always stiff and achey with limited motion and depending on which doctor I ask, I'm told this may be forever.
To fight it or at least keep it in check, I do ten minutes of neck exercises every morning. The neck pain is annoying but in my case NOT debilitating. In fact I play reasonably competitive ice hockey in an old timers league twice a week at 65 years old! So I'm happy to keep doing my exercises, whether they're working or not but at least it doesn't seem to be getting worse which I'm told can happen.
Regarding PT, I received PT specifically for neck Fibrosis for about 8 weeks after treatment and can't really say that it helped much.
BTW At two months post treatment I was a mess on many levels and thought I'd never have any semblance of a normal life again. Presently I'd say I'm 90% back to 'normal' and thoroughly enjoying life. You appear to be doing much better than many of us at that stage. Hang in there and allow time to pass it's a VERY slow recovery but you WILL gradually and continuously feel better. All the best!
Connect
@harleytiger I had an OT who did Myofascial Release Massage on my neck, chest and shoulder. It was wonderful and really loosened up my face and neck. Even my speech improved!