Aches and Pains after Chemotherapy

jmears
jmears Member Posts: 266
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I had a lumpectomy last November. Because of the size and pathology of the tumor I took 8 sessions of chemotherapy (4 Adriamycin/Cytoxan and 4 Taxotere). After the third round of the A/C every joint in by body ached. My Oncologist assured me it wasn't cancer and that it was probably a joint virus of sorts (no real diagnosis). This lasted almost 4 weeks ... but went completely away when I took the prescribed steriods that accompany Taxotere treatments. About a month after my final treatment (4/23)I became very stiff in most of my joints. My hands have pain and stiffness and my feet ache when I first stand up after being off of them for a while. I do limber up a bit throughout the day but I always have some discomfort. I feel arthritic ... but I wasn't before the chemotherapy and I'm only 43. My oncologist doesn't offer any explaination. Has anyone experienced this side-effect?
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Comments

  • bdean
    bdean Member Posts: 259
    #2
    It probably is the chemo effects on the joints and bones. Chemo just keeps on giving for months or years after final dose!!
    It really hits the bones hard. It has been 7 months since last Taxol; and I still have to be careful when I first get up and give my feet time to adjust before I start walking! If you can take aspirin, try a couple after breakfast each morning. It keeps me going all day. If you still have these symptoms for several more months, you might want to check with your regular doctor. Good wishes and prayers I send your way. Brenda from GA.
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    #3
    This comment has been removed by the Moderator
  • 24242
    24242 Member Posts: 1,398 Member
    #4
    I know I am not alone. New medication coming out all the time. Don't stop telling your doctors about your pains and remind them if it has been going on for along time. Quality to our lives is most important or it should be. There are alternative therapies that often are not explored, something may help you.
    Too many times doctors perscribe anti depressants when in fact if we weren't in pain we wouldn't be depressed. Pain and exhaustion from pain causes depression not the other way around. Many medications mask the problems don't fix it, remember that. I found exercise and doing yoga helped a great deal. We have to look out for ourselves for no one else will. Listen to your body it is speaking to you.
    Be good to yourself,
    24242Tara
  • debw
    debw Member Posts: 99
    #5
    Yes, after Taxol. It is one of those undisclosed problems that the drug company does not want to recognize. DebW
  • ksnarski
    ksnarski Member Posts: 3
    #6
    I am currently going through that right now. I have had 4 AC, 8 taxols and 4 more to go. I am on weekly taxol which they said the pain would not be as bad as "normal". BULL!!! I get my treatments on Fridays. My face gets bright red for Saturday, Sunday my taste buds go and by Tuesday, I can't walk down the block without feeling brittle. My bones hurt way deep inside and nothing will aleve it. By Thursday, I am feeling a little better, of course just in time for treatment again Friday. I'm with you. They gave me Codeine to help - it only makes me sleepy. Bathes and compresses help somewhat. Good luck -Karen
  • oliveoyl
    oliveoyl Member Posts: 16
    #7
    Yes, yes, yes, I experienced the very same thing after my rounds of A/C & Taxol. While on the Taxol, my hip joints ached so I couldn't walk for a day or two after each treatment. Then about TWO MONTHS after I was completely off the drugs, my hands and feet were really sore & stiff with a little swelling in my fingers. I feel sure this is probably due to the drugs, since I had blood tests & x-rays done to find out what was wrong. The tests didn't show anything so they suggested I have a "nerve damage" test done. I opted not to have that because I hear it's very painful. The pain & swelling finally went away, but it took a while. Hang in there.
  • mellie
    mellie Member Posts: 7
    #8
    Yes, I've experienced the same thing. I finished chemo in February '01 (A/C and Taxol). It was the Taxol that caused my aches and pains. I still have stiffness in my fingers in the morning when I wake up and my knees are creaky most all the time. My oncologist has nothing to say on the subject; but a chiropractor I work with suggested that it's caused by residual toxicity from the chemo and it will just take a while to work its way out. I've tried glucosamine, but it didn't help me, although it did help a friend of mine with similar symptoms. If I come up with any more information, I'll let you know.
  • maneely
    maneely Member Posts: 5
    #9
    It has been 4 years since I finished chemo (A/C) and I cannot function without Vioxx. My doctors have brushed off my suggestion that this was due to the chemo (I'm only 45 and had no history of arthritis or joint problems prior to the chemo)... Personally, I am convinced that this subject needs further study. Let's hope the doctors start listening to us.
  • gisela
    gisela Member Posts: 3
    #10
    Wow, I just joined today and I hear so many others are experiencing the same types of aches and pains after taxol. For me also it is worse after I have been sitting or sleeping. After the first few steps then it's OK. Now it seems to have progressed so that when I'm sleeping (in one position) and I try to turn, my hip, back hurts.I almost feel as if the supporting muscles cramp. I can't sit at a desk or in a car very long before that tightening pain starts up. It has affected my elbows and shoulders also. I too have been reporting this to all my doctors and they look at me like no one else has ever complained. They told me it might be due to low estrogen and I started using a ring. I'm now on Fosamax and Letrozole. I tried stopping each for a month (one at a time) to see if they are causing it but no change. I've tried PT and massage therapy both which help a little. If anyone has any suggestions please pass them along Thanks Gisela
  • Ann756
    Ann756 Member Posts: 1
    #11
    gisela said:

    Wow, I just joined today and I hear so many others are experiencing the same types of aches and pains after taxol. For me also it is worse after I have been sitting or sleeping. After the first few steps then it's OK. Now it seems to have progressed so that when I'm sleeping (in one position) and I try to turn, my hip, back hurts.I almost feel as if the supporting muscles cramp. I can't sit at a desk or in a car very long before that tightening pain starts up. It has affected my elbows and shoulders also. I too have been reporting this to all my doctors and they look at me like no one else has ever complained. They told me it might be due to low estrogen and I started using a ring. I'm now on Fosamax and Letrozole. I tried stopping each for a month (one at a time) to see if they are causing it but no change. I've tried PT and massage therapy both which help a little. If anyone has any suggestions please pass them along Thanks Gisela

    Hi, just joined this board. Started Letrozole in Sept. Aches/pains are similar to my chemo treatments. Haven't been in the mood to try yoga again. Walking manages it somewhat. Advil helps but I don't like to take it all the time. I'm 53 - 6 yr. survivor. It's comforting to know I'm not the only one experiencing this and that it's not all in my head! Ann
  • baker8
    baker8 Member Posts: 1
    edited February 2018 #12
    Aches and pains

    Hi, I just joined this board.  I did not start having aches and pains until a few months after using Astrozole/Arimidex.  I thought I was going crazy.  I told my oncologist and she did not believe that the medicine would affect me so dramatically.  So she switched me to another form of Arimidex.  It worked for a bit but then the joint pain and muscle aches and constant nerve pain in my legs was too much.  I have injuries from my youth and bulging discs in my neck and low back.  I recently switched back to Tamoxifen and am feeling better.  I also take Gabapentin for the nerve pain which helps immensely.  Also, on a vitamin regiment of glucosamine, chondritin, msm, Vit D, flax seed oil, and curcumin (tumeric) for inflammation.  I have also been seeing a physiotherapist/massage therapist who has helped me beyond belief.  He is the best.  I started an exercise routine and am walking 30-45 minutes 3/4 times per week.  Although it does cause me some residual pain I have found that the resistance training is very helpful.  It's comforting to read all these entries as I now know I am not loosing my mind.  Thanks :)

  • Apaugh
    Apaugh Member Posts: 850 Member
    #13
    My doc believes me.

    I am fortunate to have a onocologist that believes me and works with me.  I could not take Armidex without significant paiin and destruction to my bones.  They switched me to Tomoxifen and I am getting better results.  But the damage is done.  Osteoarthritis has set in to my joints.  A disc broke in my back.  It is not reversable.  Cancer is a ****.

    Keep strong, keep telling your stories.  I do believe some docs out there are listening.

    Hugs,

    Annie

  • Raysbabe
    Raysbabe Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2018 #14
    Told Not Cancer related too...

    Hi there ladies! I was told the same thing after treatment.."the bone pain isn't related to cancer treatment." Yes, it was! I went to bed 39 and woke up 80 it seemed like. It took a long while for the joint pain and severity to subside, but thankfully I've been out of treatment for 10 mths. and my body is slowly getting back to normal. I used to look like the evolution picture getting out of bed, but now I spring right out. I started taking calcium and also a vitamin for hair and nails. Might I add Annie, the hair and nail vitamin may also help with your new hair issues. To what feels like is never ending on the joints, moods, and emotions; it's like you wake up one day and think...Yay Jesus!! I'm still alive and kicking!

    Tam

  • Apaugh
    Apaugh Member Posts: 850 Member
    #15
    Raysbabe said:

    Told Not Cancer related too...

    Hi there ladies! I was told the same thing after treatment.."the bone pain isn't related to cancer treatment." Yes, it was! I went to bed 39 and woke up 80 it seemed like. It took a long while for the joint pain and severity to subside, but thankfully I've been out of treatment for 10 mths. and my body is slowly getting back to normal. I used to look like the evolution picture getting out of bed, but now I spring right out. I started taking calcium and also a vitamin for hair and nails. Might I add Annie, the hair and nail vitamin may also help with your new hair issues. To what feels like is never ending on the joints, moods, and emotions; it's like you wake up one day and think...Yay Jesus!! I'm still alive and kicking!

    Tam

    Supplements

    Hi Tam,

    I take calcium and Vit. D, and now I added Vit B12 for inflamation due to my lympadema in tmy arms.   I do think they help alot.  Doc told me to be careful with the amounts I take because you can get your system messed up and end up with constipation.  So I only take the amounts he says to take.  I also eat red grapes alot, watermelon, salads, greens and lean meats.  I wanted to go meatless but I cant.  I am a meat eater and I have to accept that I am.  And I love to drink milk  not the low percents, I am going all out with Vit D whole milk.  I drink it about 2 times a week.  It makes me happy.  Doc is cool with that too.  I drink a ton of water everyday.  It makes me feel better inside.  If I get a soda instead, I feel sluggish really fast. 

    My nails are doing great, my hair is a work in process for sure.  I am confident, I will get there.  Keeping you all in my heart and in my prayers for better days. 

    Hugs,

    Annie

  • Raysbabe
    Raysbabe Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2018 #16
    Meat eater and I can't change that

    You're not alone..I refuse to give up my meats. I do need to start eating healthier, but the frustration of expensive foods comparable to "not so healthy" ones are a struggle. I haven't thought of Vit B12, but I know it packs an antioxidant punch. We should honestly give ourselves a break, so what if we like some high calorie items; We've been in battle! Thankful my joints aren't as achy these days, but now I'm dealing with mastectomy pain issues. I guess this is another part of the journey?

    Prayers and hugs to everyone and love the new picture! I need to upload one soon. 

    Tam

  • LoisJ
    LoisJ Member Posts: 5
    #17
    Raysbabe said:

    Told Not Cancer related too...

    Hi there ladies! I was told the same thing after treatment.."the bone pain isn't related to cancer treatment." Yes, it was! I went to bed 39 and woke up 80 it seemed like. It took a long while for the joint pain and severity to subside, but thankfully I've been out of treatment for 10 mths. and my body is slowly getting back to normal. I used to look like the evolution picture getting out of bed, but now I spring right out. I started taking calcium and also a vitamin for hair and nails. Might I add Annie, the hair and nail vitamin may also help with your new hair issues. To what feels like is never ending on the joints, moods, and emotions; it's like you wake up one day and think...Yay Jesus!! I'm still alive and kicking!

    Tam

    Chemo Pain

    I was told the shot (Neulasta which make bone make white cells) was causing back pain,( as a dentist had hit a nerve no novacaine). I was not told to expect this intense pain (I have fibromyalgia I have learned to ignore moderate pain) it started about 2 days after shot and lasted about 3 days. I get shot day after each chemo.  Sorry ramble. Diff sleeping.

  • Raysbabe
    Raysbabe Member Posts: 17
    edited March 2018 #18
    LoisJ said:

    Chemo Pain

    I was told the shot (Neulasta which make bone make white cells) was causing back pain,( as a dentist had hit a nerve no novacaine). I was not told to expect this intense pain (I have fibromyalgia I have learned to ignore moderate pain) it started about 2 days after shot and lasted about 3 days. I get shot day after each chemo.  Sorry ramble. Diff sleeping.

    Mini Satan!

    The neulasta is definitely one of the main culprits for pain. I noticed after my first couple of injections, it wasn't quite as intense. It definitely required me to take some medication for the achiness and pain. I named that mini satan personally.

  • Susan59dance
    Susan59dance Member Posts: 5
    #19
    LoisJ said:

    Chemo Pain

    I was told the shot (Neulasta which make bone make white cells) was causing back pain,( as a dentist had hit a nerve no novacaine). I was not told to expect this intense pain (I have fibromyalgia I have learned to ignore moderate pain) it started about 2 days after shot and lasted about 3 days. I get shot day after each chemo.  Sorry ramble. Diff sleeping.

    Chemo pain

    I was told the same thing LoisJ.  Usually hits me 2-3 days after shot.  I can't move the first day. Hopefully you don't have many more to go. I have 2 more treatments to go. Stay strong!!

  • ecdy
    ecdy Member Posts: 1
    #20
    stiffness and joint pain

    I agree with all of you.  My radiology oncologist told me the aches and pain will last for quite awhile after treatment ends.  It takes awhile for the toxins to get out of the body.  Not very pleasant news.

    I have completed 3 months of chemo and 6 wks of radiation and now having herceptin infusions every 3 wk for a year.  The stiffness is really bad for several days after the treatment.    Now my doc wants to put me on arimidex at same time which would mean double the stiffness.  Havent found anything to help with the pain yet, but someone suggested yoga .  So I will try that

  • asilinc298
    asilinc298 Member Posts: 8
    #21
    I just joined today so will

    I just joined today so will respond.  I have the same as you, by the 3rd AC treatment pain was unbearable.  the pre taxol steroids kept that in check. now after chemo ends, really bad pains in hands and feet. I have never ever woken up with such bad hand pains in my life, and my feet, the right one is near useless and left one is bad too. I have 2 story home so have to be super careful on the stairs.  I hope that we both can find something to relive this issue

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