Impact of massage therapy on sleep in young cancer patients

Massage Impact on Sleep in Hospitalization for Pediatric Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Patients

NA · Children's Hospital of Philadelphia · NCT06892158

This study is testing whether personalized massage therapy can help young cancer patients in the hospital sleep better and feel less tired, anxious, and in pain during their treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 21 Years
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations2 sites (Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06892158 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of individualized massage therapy on hospitalized pediatric patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy or stem cell transplant. It aims to assess whether massage can enhance sleep duration and quality, improve circadian rhythms, and alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and pain compared to standard care. The study will involve patients aged 12 to 21 years who are expected to be in the hospital for at least 21 days due to their cancer treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric patients aged 12 to 21 years diagnosed with cancer, specifically those receiving intensive chemotherapy or stem cell transplant.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments or those who cannot complete study questionnaires may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the quality of sleep and overall well-being for pediatric cancer patients undergoing intensive treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Limited previous studies have shown positive effects of massage therapy on sleep and symptom relief in cancer patients, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosis of cancer, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (rALL) OR admitted to receive autologous or allogeneic HSCT for any indication
2. Expected to be an inpatient for at least 21 days
3. Aged 12 to 21 years at enrollment.
4. Inpatient at Children's National or Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Cognitive impairment sufficient to preclude completing questionnaires appropriately
2. Insufficient knowledge of English or Spanish that would prohibit completing the study instruments
3. Previous enrollment

Where this trial is running

Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations

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: Cancer, Pediatric Cancer, Chemotherapy Effect, Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, Pediatric, Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Stem cell transplant, Decreased sleep efficiency

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.