RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07501663

Optimizing Integrative Oncology Approaches to Address Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer Patients: A SMART Pilot Study

Sponsor

Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University

Enrollment

60 participants

Start Date

Jan 20, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Peripheral Neuropathy

Summary

The objective of the proposed pilot is to test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a 16-week sequential, multiple assessment randomized trial (SMART), which includes virtual Tai Chi/Qi Gong or α- Lipoic acid (ALA) supplements as an initial treatment, and acupuncture as the additional treatment, that examines a stepped-care intervention to address CIPN.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a procedure called Acupuncture, a behavioral approach called Tai Chi/Qi Gong, and others for people with peripheral neuropathy. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include aged 18 Years and older.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.

Interventions

BEHAVIORALTai Chi/Qi Gong

Participants will be asked to attend Tai Chi/Qi Gong classes for one hour twice a week for 8 weeks over Zoom video conferencing or in person. Using a manualized approach, each class will provide objectives and learning activities related to sequentially learning a specific set of Tai Chi/Qi Gong movements with verification of skills attainment weekly24. Six key elements will be emphasized: 1) Mindfulness; 2) Postural alignment; 3) Natural breathing; 4) Active relaxation, 5) Slow movement, and 6) Integrated movement.

DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTα- Lipoic acid

Participants will be provided with Lipoic Acid Supplement (300 mg) bottles, with instructions to take two tablets daily, 30 minutes before breakfast.

PROCEDUREAcupuncture

participants will receive acupuncture treatments for 8 weeks. After disinfecting the skin with an alcohol swab, acupuncturists inserted filiform 0.16 mm × 15 mm (or 30 mm) sterilized, disposable acupuncture needles in the ear and Ba Feng points; 0.20 mm × 30 mm (or 40 mm) sterilized, disposable acupuncture needles will be inserted at body points. Needles for body points will be inserted 0.5 inches into the skin and left for 30 min after achieving de qi, a sensation of achiness, soreness and heaviness.