Hand exercises to improve limb volume and function in breast cancer survivors
The Effect of Hand Mobility and Grip Strengthening Exercises on Upper Limb Volume, Quality of Life, and Hand Function in Breast Cancer Survivors
This study tests if adding hand exercises to regular treatment can help women with breast cancer-related swelling feel better and improve their hand strength and movement.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Texas Woman's University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, immunotherapy |
| Locations | 3 sites (Albuquerque, New Mexico and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05983380 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of hand mobility and grip strengthening exercises in conjunction with usual care for women suffering from breast cancer-related lymphedema. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving standard treatment and the other receiving standard treatment plus the hand exercises. The study will assess changes in upper limb volume, quality of life, hand dexterity, and grip strength over an 8-week period. The analysis will utilize MANOVA or mixed ANOVA depending on the relationships found among the dependent variables.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are biologic women aged 18 or older with a diagnosis of upper extremity lymphedema following breast cancer treatment within the last 10 years.
Not a fit: Patients with prior history of paresis in either upper limb or current open wounds on the affected limb may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the quality of life and functional abilities of breast cancer survivors dealing with lymphedema.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of hand exercises and usual care is novel, similar studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions for lymphedema management.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Biologic women age 18 years or older with a diagnosis of clinical lymphedema of one upper extremity-early (clinical), moderate, or late stage, following treatment for breast cancer within the previous 10 years. * Women concurrently receiving immunotherapy or chemotherapy are eligible for inclusion, but an additional information request may be necessary (e.g., any activity restrictions and nadir periods) to determine whether they can safely participate in the exercise activities and apply compression. Exclusion Criteria: * Prior history of paresis in either upper limb, though paresis related to nerve compression from increased lymphatic volume will be eligible for inclusion. * Current open wounds (\> 0.5 inch in length or diameter) of the axilla or edematous upper limb would be excluded, though the presence of lymphorrhea without visible skin tears will be eligible for inclusion. * Previous treatment for upper limb lymphedema or a prior diagnosis of congestive heart failure or end-stage renal disease due to the impact on edematous limbs and risk of cardiac overload. * Women who cannot speak or read English or Spanish sufficiently to complete the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale or understand the consent forms, educational information, and printed exercises will be excluded.
Where this trial is running
Albuquerque, New Mexico and 2 other locations
- Presbyterian Healthplex — Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (Recruiting)
- Presbyterian Southern Outpatient Rehab — Rio Rancho, New Mexico, United States (Recruiting)
- Presbyterian Santa Fe Medical Center — Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Elisabeth Wise, DPT — Texas Woman's University
- Study coordinator: Elisabeth Wise, DPT
- Email: EWise@phs.org
- Phone: 505-772-1770
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.