Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 65

Comparing early versus delayed exercise therapy after breast cancer surgery

Official title: Timing of Specific Exercise Therapy After Breast Cancer Surgery: A Single-Center, Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Early (<1 Week Postoperative) Versus Delayed (3 Weeks Postoperative) Initiation for Optimized Upper Limb Function

Run by Al Hayah University In Cairo · NCT06918184 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether starting exercise therapy right after breast cancer surgery or waiting a few weeks helps patients recover better and feel less pain.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
Enrollment140 (estimated)
SponsorAl Hayah University In Cairo
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cairo)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 15, 2025
Main results expectedNovember 15, 2026
Study endsNovember 15, 2026
Registry record updatedApril 9, 2025
Trial IDNCT06918184 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are women aged 18-65 scheduled for breast cancer surgery with axillary node dissection and at risk for upper limb morbidity.

Probably not a fit

Patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer or severe comorbidities that prevent safe participation may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the effects of initiating specific exercise therapy either within the first week or at three weeks after breast cancer surgery. The primary focus is to determine which timing leads to better upper limb function at six months, assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include measuring pain intensity and monitoring wound-related complications. The study aims to provide insights into optimal rehabilitation timing for post-surgical breast cancer patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery and upper limb function for women after breast cancer surgery.

How similar studies have gone: While there is limited information on similar studies, the approach of timing in rehabilitation post-surgery is a relevant area of investigation that may yield beneficial insights.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women aged 18-65 years.
* Scheduled to undergo breast cancer surgery with axillary node dissection.
* At risk for upper limb morbidity based on preoperative assessment.
* Able to provide informed consent and complete study questionnaires.
* Willing and able to attend scheduled physiotherapy sessions and follow-up evaluations.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of recurrent or metastatic breast cancer.
* Concurrent participation in another rehabilitation intervention or clinical trial.
* Severe comorbidities (e.g., uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, severe orthopedic conditions) that preclude safe participation.
* History of previous shoulder surgery or chronic upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders unrelated to breast cancer treatment.
* Inability to understand or complete study materials in English.
* Pregnancy or lactation.

Where it's running

  • Faculty of Physical Therapy, Al Hayah University
    Cairo, Egypt
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.