Arm cording, also known as axillary web syndrome (AWS), is a common side effect of breast cancer surgery. Here are some key points about it:

- Symptoms: It causes pain and tightness in the underarm area, which can extend down the arm to the elbow, wrist, thumb, and even over the chest. This can make it difficult to lift Show Full Answer

Arm cording, also known as axillary web syndrome (AWS), is a common side effect of breast cancer surgery. Here are some key points about it:

- Symptoms: It causes pain and tightness in the underarm area, which can extend down the arm to the elbow, wrist, thumb, and even over the chest. This can make it difficult to lift the arm above the shoulders or extend the elbow, limiting the range of motion. Some people also experience heaviness, numbness, or tingling in the arm.
- Appearance: AWS may be visible as a net or web of tissue beneath the skin of the inner arm. It can look like a swollen vein or a tight strap.
- Onset: Cording can develop several days to several weeks after breast cancer surgery, but in some cases, it can appear months later.
- Causes: It usually occurs after surgery to remove lymph nodes in the axilla (underarm), such as sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). The condition is more common after ALND.

For treatment, physical therapy, manual therapy, and pain medication are often recommended to improve flexibility, mobility, and reduce pain.

 This AI-generated response comes from MyBCTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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