Hand massage for patients in palliative oncology care

The Effect of Hand Massage Applied to Palliative Care Oncology Patients on Pain, Comfort and Sleep Quality

NA · Istanbul Sultanbeyli State Hospital · NCT06360614

This study tests whether hand massage can help improve the comfort and quality of life for cancer patients in palliative care who are dealing with pain and sleep problems.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul Sultanbeyli State Hospital (other gov)
Locations1 site (Istanbul)
Trial IDNCT06360614 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effects of hand massage on oncology patients receiving palliative care. It aims to improve the quality of life by addressing physical symptoms such as pain and sleep disturbances through a non-pharmacological approach. Patients who have been undergoing treatment for at least two weeks and are experiencing significant pain and sleep issues will receive hand massage in conjunction with routine nursing care. The study focuses on the holistic needs of patients, integrating both physical and emotional support.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are oncology patients aged 18 and over who have been in palliative care for at least two weeks and are experiencing moderate to severe pain and sleep issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving palliative care for at least two weeks or have neurological conditions or hand deformities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance comfort and reduce pain for patients undergoing palliative care.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with non-pharmacological interventions like massage in palliative care settings, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Oncology patients receiving treatment for at least 2 weeks in palliative care.
* 18 years and over.
* Able to communicate clearly and effectively.
* Visual Analogue Scale-Pain score above 3.
* Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score above 5.
* Without a neurological medical diagnosis.
* There is no intravenous catheter on the hand and there is no deformity in the hand.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Less than 2 weeks of treatment in palliative care.
* Under 18 years of age.
* Outside the clinical protocol use analgesic medication or methods.
* A change in the standard protocol for pain and sleep.
* Visual Analogue Scale-Pain score below 3.
* Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score below 5.
* Unable to communicate effectively.
* Patients with diagnosed neurological problems and hand deformities.

Where this trial is running

Istanbul

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hand Massage, Palliative care, Oncology, Hand massage, Pain, Comfort, Sleep quality

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.