Manual therapy for improving oral and swallowing function in head and neck cancer survivors
Official title: Effects of Manual Therapy on Oral Opening, Swallow Function, and Upper Quarter Mobility in Chilean Survivors of Head and Neck Cancer: A Study Protocol for a Controlled, Randomized Study (MATEO Study, MAnual ThErapy for Oral Opening).
Run by Universidad de La Frontera · NCT06148077 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a hands-on therapy program can help survivors of head and neck cancer improve their ability to open their mouths, swallow, and move their upper bodies better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Universidad de La Frontera Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Temuco, Cautin and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 25, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 1, 2025 |
| Study ends | October 1, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | May 30, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06148077 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include Spanish-speaking adults over 18 years old who have undergone oncological treatment for head and neck cancer and have a diagnosis of trismus or related dysfunction.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active cancer, severe cervical spine issues, or those who have had a stroke 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 clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a manual therapy program on oral opening, swallowing function, and upper quarter mobility in survivors of head and neck cancer. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a manual therapy group or a control group receiving motor control exercises. The intervention consists of three sessions per week over six weeks, totaling 18 appointments, with assessments conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and six weeks after treatment completion. The study focuses on improving quality of life, pain management, and functionality in this patient population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the quality of life and functional abilities of head and neck cancer survivors suffering from trismus and related dysfunctions.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited data on manual therapy specifically for this population, similar approaches in physical rehabilitation have shown promise in improving outcomes for cancer survivors.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * individuals with HNC * individuals over 18 years of age * individuals who have undergone oncological surgery of the head and neck and/or radiotherapy * having finished oncological medical treatment between 3 and 36 months before inclusion * having a medical diagnosis of trismus and/or TMD and/or cervical or shoulder dysfunction * Spanish native speakers Exclusion Criteria: * sequelae of previous stroke * structural instability and/or osteoporosis of the cervical spine, spondylosis, cervical herniated discs * active osteoradionecrosis or open wounds (fistulas, soft tissue necrosis) in the anatomical treatment area * tracheostomized individuals * metastasis or active cancer * refuse to participate.
Where it's running
-
Barbara Burgos Mansilla
Temuco, Cautin, Chile Recruiting -
Universidad de La Frontera
Temuco, Cautin, Chile Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Barbara Burgos, PhD — Universidad de La Frontera
- Study coordinator: Barbara Burgos, PhD
- Email: barbara.burgos@ufrontera.cl
- Phone: +56991358814
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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.