Hi, Persistent pain in the neck and shoulder after mastectomy can have several possible causes, some of which may be related to the surgery and others that are unrelated. Here are a few possible reasons for the pain: * Lymphedema: Lymphedema is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment that involves the removal of lymph nodes in the armpit. This condition can cause swelling and pain in the affected arm and shoulder, as well as a limited range of motion. If you have lymphedema, your doctor may recommend compression garments, massage therapy, or other treatments to manage the symptoms. * Neuropathic pain: Neuropathic pain is a type of pain caused by damage to the nerves. This can occur as a result of surgery or other cancer treatments and can cause burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the affected area. If your pain is caused by neuropathy, your doctor may prescribe medication to manage the symptoms. * Shoulder joint problems: Surgery and radiation therapy can affect the shoulder joint, causing stiffness, limited range of motion, and pain. This can be due to damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments surrounding the joint. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy or other treatments to improve the range of motion in your shoulder. * Referred pain: Pain in the neck and shoulder can also be referred from other parts of the body, such as the chest or back. This can occur due to muscle strain, nerve compression, or other issues. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as CT scans or X-rays, to rule out other possible causes. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist, such as a pain management specialist or oncologist, to help manage your symptoms. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician