Using self-acupressure and Zhan Zhuang to manage symptoms in breast cancer survivors
Self-acupressure and Zhan Zhuang for Pain, Fatigue, and Sleep Disturbance in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests if self-acupressure and a standing meditation practice can help breast cancer survivors feel less pain, reduce fatigue, and improve their sleep.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 54 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06497582 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of self-acupressure and Zhan Zhuang on alleviating pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances in breast cancer survivors. It involves a randomized controlled trial with 54 participants divided into three groups: one receiving Zhan Zhuang training, another practicing self-acupressure, and a waitlist control group. Participants will undergo an 8-week intervention consisting of a two-week training course followed by six weeks of self-practice. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after the intervention period to evaluate the effectiveness of these approaches.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are female adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and experience moderate levels of pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
Not a fit: Patients currently engaged in other body-mind exercises or therapies for symptom management may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide breast cancer survivors with effective self-management techniques for pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific combination of self-acupressure and Zhan Zhuang for breast cancer survivorship is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * a female adult aged 18 and older; * a diagnosis of early-stage (Stage I, II, or III) breast cancer; * completion of surgery, and/or chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy; * have at least a moderate level of pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance as measured on 0-10 numerical rating scales, with a score of ≥ 3 for each symptom during the past one month; * willing to use WhatsApp messenger for follow-ups; * being able to communicate in Chinese Exclusion Criteria: * prior use of acupuncture, acupressure, Zhan Zhuang, or other types of Zhan Zhuang within the past three months; * currently receiving progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and other body mind exercise (e.g. yoga) for the treatment of pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance; * mentally incapable of participating in the study as indicated by the Hong Kong version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment score; * inability to perform self-care as indicated by the Karnofsky Performance Scale score\<70
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (posters, Facebook, WhatsApp groups etc.) — Hong Kong, China (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Huilin Cheng, PhD
- Email: eileen.cheng@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: 27664771
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.