How can I cope with pain and disability after colorectal cancer treatment?

Communities›Post-Treatment / Survivorship›How can I cope with pain and disability after colorectal cancer treatment?

CM

Community Member

4 months ago

Please excuse my lengthy post, and thank you for your time 🫶 I was diagnosed with Stage 111b Colorectal Cancer in November 2022. 4 months prior in July 2022, I fractured my sacrum with a wave at the beach (which they determined later was due to brittle bones from my cancer). The doctor's had to place my injury on hold until after my year long cancer treatments as they couldn't do both. I have completed my cancer treatments (Chemo Radiation, Chemotherapy, ileostomy surgery), and as of August 2024 I am now "cancer free". I had 4 screws placed in my sacrum and completed 9 rounds of cortisone shots & an ablation. I have graduated from a wheelchair, to crutches, and finally walking - and this is after walking around on a fractured sacrum for 1-1/2 years through my cancer treatments. But, unfortunately my severe neuropathy on my hands & feet assisted with my disability. Sadly, my Insurance was unempathic throughout this journey! I am walking, cancer free & alive. I had an amazing team, and phenomenal caretakers. So much to live for. I've had a positive attitude that helped me throughout this healing journey. This survivorship journey has been uplifting but draining as I used to walk 2 miles a day, and now I shuffle my feet. I am constantly in pain, and living with incontinence. In the end, I am blessed .. I am living for living - not dying 🫶💪🦋🎗️💙

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Accepted Answer

Navigating pain and disability after cancer treatment requires a combination of professional support, adaptive strategies, and patience with the healing process. Physical therapy, pain management specialists, occupational therapy for daily living adaptations, and support groups can all provide valuable tools for managing these challenges while maintaining quality of life. The strength and resilience shown throughout this journey is truly remarkable, and connecting with other survivors who understand these ongoing struggles can be incredibly helpful.

3+ patients found this helpful

JH

Community Member

2 months ago

Big Prayers for you, my friend! You have been through so much! Move as much as you’re able every single day! I pray for your comfort and strength 💪🏻 Congratulations on being C free. What a wonderful attitude you have! We.Got.This💚

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CM

Community Member

2 months ago

Thank you so kindly Judie. Your kindness helps me so much through this recovery journey. Take care 💓

CM

Community Member

2 months ago

💚💙

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Navigating pain and disability after cancer treatment requires a combination of professional support, adaptive strategies, and patience with the healing process. Physical therapy, pain management specialists, occupational therapy for daily living adaptations, and support groups can all provide valuable tools for managing these challenges while maintaining quality of life. The strength and resilience shown throughout this journey is truly remarkable, and connecting with other survivors who understand these ongoing struggles can be incredibly helpful.

How can I cope with pain and disability after colorectal cancer treatment?

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