Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyBCTeam
Powered By
Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Anyone Experience AWS (axillary Web Syndrome), Commonly Called Cording?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Placitas, NM

Wondering how long until arm has range of motion again? Starting radiation in a couple weeks and will need to raise arm. Can't do that now (surgery to breast/lymph nodes) was 9/11. Thanks in advance.

October 6, 2024
View reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member

You can do “do-it-yourself cording massage until you can get to a lymphedema PT appointment.
Read up online about it. Makes a difference.

October 8, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Ask your doctor to get you into Physical Therapy ASAP. I saw a lymphedema specialist who was fabulous! She really helped work out my cording so I was able to tolerate radiation. I would never been able to hold arms above my head holding onto the pegs for radiation treatment without the help of PT. Just finished my 6 weeks radiation. Best of Luck to you

October 6, 2024 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Agree, seek PT. I saw one for self massage to help manage lymph drainage. It is a specific type of therapy. She also taught me how to help release cording. I also keep frequently used items on the highest shelf I can reach to keep full ROM in upper body. Catch cording as early as possible for best results but don’t quit if later. Therapy can help!

October 6, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

You need PT urgently. Don’t let cording remain for long. PTs can remove those with specific massage so that they don’t settle there for a longer period.

October 6, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Someone mentioned reading up on massage, cording, and all the related items. There are also a lot of wonderful videos where PTs demonstrate and explain everything. Some are better than others but many of them are so helpful. It is all easier to understand when you see it demonstrated. Google it.

October 11, 2024

Related content

View All

What Is Arm Cording And Arm Lock

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Henderson, KY

How To Manage Painful Cording In Armpit Area Prior To Starting Radiation Treatment

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rhinebeck, NY

Sentinal Node Biopsy On Non Cancerous Side

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fredericksburg, VA
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in