Impact of massage therapy on sleep in young cancer patients
Official title: Massage Impact on Sleep in Hospitalization for Pediatric Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Patients
Run by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia · NCT06892158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 12 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 2 sites (Washington D.C., District of Columbia and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 23, 2025 |
| Main results expected | January 2028 |
| Study ends | July 2028 |
| Registry record updated | April 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06892158 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are pediatric patients aged 12 to 21 years diagnosed with cancer, specifically those receiving intensive chemotherapy or stem cell transplant.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with cognitive impairments or those who cannot complete study questionnaires may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting -
Children's National Hospital
Washington D.C., District of Columbia, United States Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tracey Jubelirer, MD — Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Lauren Vernau
- Email: vernaul@chop.edu
- Phone: 267-426-1162
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.