Self-Administered Relaxing Acupressure to Reduce Fatigue in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN ROGEL CANCER CENTER · May 30, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether self-administered relaxing acupressure can help reduce fatigue in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Acupressure involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body, similar to massage, and has been shown to help alleviate fatigue in adult cancer patients. The researchers want to see if this method can also benefit younger survivors who are experiencing fatigue after their cancer treatments.

To be eligible for the study, participants must be between 15 and 39 years old, at least three months past their cancer treatment, and currently experiencing significant fatigue. They should also be able to read and speak English and have completed their cancer treatment within the last five years. Unfortunately, individuals with certain medical conditions or those who have recently received acupressure or acupuncture are not eligible. If you choose to participate, you will learn how to perform acupressure on yourself, and the study aims to see how effective this technique is in helping you feel less tired.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 15 - 39 years old
• • At least three months post cancer treatment (e.g., surgery, radiation or chemotherapy). Participants receiving maintenance hormonal or targeted therapies will be allowed to enroll as determined by the study investigator
• • Report clinically relevant fatigue in the past seven days (Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems \[PROMIS\] Fatigue 4a scores ≥ 55)
• • Speak / read English
• • CRF started at or after the diagnosis of cancer
• • Completed cancer treatment within the past five years
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of untreated anemia, mood disorder, or hypothyroidism
• • Plan to begin new pharmacological, psychological, or other treatments (i.e., physical therapy or dietary supplements) for CRF during the study. Although, participants may continue usual treatments for CRF if the treatments were initiated at least eight weeks prior to study enrollment, and the dose has not changed
• • Plan to become pregnant or lactating during the study period
• • Received acupressure or acupuncture in the past year

Trial Officials