Long-Term Multidisciplinary Physiotherapy for Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial
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
Al Hayah University In Cairo
146 participants
Apr 23, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the long-term (12-month) effectiveness of a standardized multidisciplinary physiotherapy program versus standard care on persistent pain, upper limb (UL) dysfunction, and cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in breast cancer survivors. The study also examines improvements in quality of life and psychological well-being. The standardized intervention combines specific exercise therapy, manual therapy, education, and mind-body interventions and is designed to produce sustained benefits beyond the acute rehabilitation phase.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- 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 Criteria5
- 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.
Interventions
A comprehensive program that integrates: Specific Exercise Therapy: Supervised stretching and strengthening sessions (30-60 minutes/session, 3× per week for 8 weeks) followed by a prescribed home-based maintenance regimen. Manual Therapy: Targeted soft-tissue mobilization and myofascial release (20-30 minutes/session, twice per week for 4 weeks). Education Sessions: Three sessions (both in-person and online) covering pain neuroscience and self-management techniques. Mind-Body Interventions: Weekly 40-minute sessions of yoga or tai chi for 6 weeks.
Routine care involves standard follow-up with basic physiotherapy advice as currently provided to breast cancer survivors. This serves as the active comparator in the trial.
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.
NCT06913244