Long-term physiotherapy for breast cancer survivors

Long-Term Multidisciplinary Physiotherapy for Breast Cancer Survivors: Evaluation of the 12-Month Effectiveness on Pain, Upper Limb Function, and Cancer-Related Fatigue in a Multi-Center, Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial

This study is testing a special 12-month physiotherapy program to see if it helps breast cancer survivors with pain, movement issues, and fatigue feel better compared to standard care.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 146 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 65 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Al Hayah University In Cairo (Academic / other)
• Drugs / interventions: chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation
• Locations: 1 site (Cairo)
• Trial ID: NCT06913244 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of a standardized multidisciplinary physiotherapy program over 12 months for breast cancer survivors experiencing persistent pain, upper limb dysfunction, and cancer-related fatigue. The intervention includes specific exercise therapy, manual therapy, education on pain management, and mind-body practices like yoga or tai chi. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving the multidisciplinary program and the other receiving standard care. The study aims to assess improvements in quality of life and psychological well-being in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged 18-65 who have undergone breast cancer surgery and completed acute treatment at least 6 months prior, currently experiencing persistent sequelae.

Not a fit: Patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer or those currently receiving active cancer treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the quality of life and reduce persistent symptoms in breast cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with multidisciplinary rehabilitation approaches for cancer survivors, suggesting potential success for this intervention.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

Women aged between 18 and 65 years. History of breast cancer surgery (with or without axillary lymph node dissection).

Completed acute cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation) at least 6 months prior to enrollment.

Currently in the survivorship phase, with no active evidence of disease.

Experiencing persistent sequelae related to treatment, such as:

Moderate to severe pain (e.g., VAS score ≥ 30 on a 0-100 scale), and/or Upper limb dysfunction, and/or Cancer-related fatigue (as measured by FACIT-Fatigue). Able to understand and provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

Diagnosis of recurrent or metastatic breast cancer. Currently receiving active cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation for active disease, or immunotherapy).

Participation in another interventional trial targeting pain or rehabilitation within the past 3 months.

Presence of severe comorbidities (e.g., uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, severe orthopedic or neurological conditions) that would preclude safe participation in physiotherapy.

Any physical or psychological condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would interfere with participation or adherence to the study protocol (e.g., severe cognitive impairment).

Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Where this trial is running

Cairo

• Faculty of Physical Therapy, Al Hayah University — Cairo, Egypt (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Mohamed ElMeligie, Ph.D

Conditions Breast Cancer; Breast Cancer Female