Myofascial Massage for Post-Mastectomy Pain and Immobility

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: MetroHealth Medical Center

No Placebo Group

Approved in 3 Jurisdictions

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

About 25-50% of women who undergo breast cancer surgery develop persistent chest wall pain and shoulder mobility limitations following surgery. The pain and mobility limitations adversely affect quality of life, sleep, and body image. Unfortunately, current treatments for pain and mobility limitations have variable efficacy. Based on a review of relevant pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors, investigators reasoned that myofascial massage may address contributors to pain and mobility limitations following breast cancer surgery. Investigators propose a randomized controlled trial looking at myofascial massage compared to a light touch group to look at the effects on pain and immobility following breast cancer surgery.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for women over 18 who had breast cancer surgery between 3-18 months ago, are experiencing chronic pain or immobility since the operation, and have finished all treatments like radiation and chemotherapy within the last 18 months. It's not for those who ended treatment more than 18 months ago, have lymphedema, open wounds, are on anticoagulants or currently getting massages.

Inclusion Criteria

I am 18 years old or older.

I have had chronic pain or trouble moving since my surgery.

I am not planning to have any more surgeries.

Exclusion Criteria

I have open wounds or sores.

I had surgery less than 3 months ago.

I am not female.

Participant Groups

The study compares myofascial massage to light touch therapy in women after breast cancer surgery to see which is better at reducing pain and improving shoulder mobility. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of these two approaches in a controlled setting.

Group I: Myofascial Massage Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Participants randomized to this group will receive 30 minutes of myofascial massage to their affected breast, chest, and shoulder areas twice a week for 2 months. Therapists will follow a detailed 8 week protocol developed with a massage therapy consultant and the study team.

Group II: Light Touch Active Control 1 Intervention

Participants randomized to this group will receive 30 minutes of light touch to their affected breast, chest, and shoulder areas twice a week for 2 months.

Myofascial Massage is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:

🇺🇸 Approved in United States as Myofascial Massage for:

• Relief of myofascial pain and stiffness in breast cancer survivors

🇪🇺 Approved in European Union as Myofascial Release for:

• Management of post-surgical pain and restricted mobility in breast cancer patients

🇨🇦 Approved in Canada as Myofascial Massage for:

• Improvement of shoulder muscle properties in breast cancer survivors with myofascial pain

Find a Clinic Near You

Research Locations Nearby Select from list below to view details:

MetroHealth Medical Center Cleveland, OH

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

MetroHealth Medical Center Lead Sponsor

References