Comparing early versus delayed exercise therapy after breast cancer surgery
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
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 140 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Al Hayah University In Cairo Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cairo) |
| Trial ID | NCT06918184 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
Not a fit: Patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer or severe comorbidities that prevent safe participation may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Cairo
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Al Hayah University — Cairo, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mohamed ElMeligie, Ph.D
- Email: mohamed.elmeligie@ahuc.edu.eg
- Phone: 01159880001
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.