Effects of myofascial massage and communication on shoulder pain in breast cancer survivors
Effects of Myofascial Massage and Patient-therapist Communication Levels on Shoulder Muscle Properties in Breast Cancer Survivors With Myofascial Pain
This study tests if myofascial massage can help relieve shoulder pain and stiffness in breast cancer survivors, while also looking at how talking with the therapist affects the results.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06679400 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate how myofascial massage impacts the stiffness and blood flow of shoulder muscles in breast cancer survivors experiencing myofascial pain. It will also investigate how the level of communication between the patient and therapist influences these outcomes. Participants will receive a 30-minute myofascial massage, and measurements will be taken to assess changes in muscle properties. The study seeks to understand the relationship between therapeutic techniques and patient engagement in the healing process.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are breast cancer survivors who have completed treatment and experience myofascial pain in the upper quadrant of the chest.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment for other forms of cancer or those with unrelated chronic injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-pharmacological treatment options for managing shoulder pain in breast cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with massage therapy for pain management, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Previous unilateral breast cancer diagnosis * Treatment for primary breast cancer was completed 3 months to 2 years prior to enrollment (defined as completion of all treatments except oral maintenance therapies) * Myofascial pain in upper quadrant of the chest * Ability to understand and willingness to sign a written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Chronic neuromuscular or orthopedic injury currently affecting upper extremity function that is unrelated to their cancer diagnosis * Currently undergoing physical therapy, occupational therapy or other treatment for side effects related to their cancer diagnosis or other injury to the upper extremity * History of fibromyalgia * Broken or bruised skin in the chest/shoulder area * Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer * Currently receiving treatment for other forms of cancer
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan
- University of Michigan — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David Lipps, PhD — University of Michigan
- Study coordinator: Kayla Russell-Bertucci
- Email: kaylarb@umich.edu
- Phone: 734-764-3832
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.