Evaluating manual therapy to prevent fibrosis in head and neck cancer patients after radiation

The Evaluation of Manual Therapy for the Prevention of Radiation-Induced Fibrosis in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Not applicable Interventional Chang Gung Memorial Hospital · NCT04850170

This study is testing if manual therapy can help prevent stiffness and improve movement in head and neck cancer patients after they finish radiation treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages20 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChang Gung Memorial Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (New Taipei City)
Trial IDNCT04850170 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of manual therapy and rehabilitation in preventing radiation-induced fibrosis in patients who have completed radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. It consists of two parts: a pilot study with 10 subjects receiving manual therapy and rehabilitation over six months, and a randomized controlled study with 60 patients divided into two groups—one receiving manual therapy and rehabilitation, and the other receiving rehabilitation only. Evaluations will be conducted at baseline, and at 3, 6, and 12 months to assess various outcomes related to fibrosis and functional mobility.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 20 years old who have completed radiation therapy for head and neck cancer within the last 4 to 6 weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with recurrent or metastatic cancer, concurrent second cancers, or those with severe post-radiation dermatitis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new approach to prevent or reduce the severity of radiation-induced fibrosis in head and neck cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using manual therapy for this specific condition is novel, similar interventions have shown promise in other contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria :

1. Age \> 20 years
2. Head and neck cancer
3. After Completion of radiation therapy for 4 to 6 weeks
4. Be willing to accept manual therapy and long-term follow up

Exclusion Criteria :

1. Recurrence, metastatic cancer, or concurrent second cancer
2. With post-radiation dermatitis at neck or shoulder
3. Current pregnancy or lactation
4. Life expectancy of \< 12 months.

Where this trial is running

New Taipei City

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Radiation-Induced Fibrosis in Patients With Head and Neck CancerHead and neck cancerPost-radiation fibrosisManual therapyRehabilitation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.