Feasibility of Prospective Surveillance and Early Physical Therapy for Trismus

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA · Jul 27, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a condition called trismus, which is when people have trouble moving their jaws. This can happen to patients with head and neck cancer who are receiving treatments like surgery or radiation. The researchers want to see if closely monitoring patients and starting physical therapy early can help reduce the impact of trismus. They will be working with 30 individuals who are about to begin radiation therapy for their cancer.

To be eligible for this study, participants must have a diagnosis of oral, oropharyngeal, or nasopharyngeal cancer and be scheduled for radiation treatment. They should also be able to read and understand English and live in Alberta. During the trial, participants will have weekly check-ins while they’re receiving radiation. If they show a decrease in jaw movement, they will receive therapy and exercises to help improve their condition. The goal is to gather important information that could help design a larger study in the future. If you're considering participating, it could be a valuable opportunity to help improve treatment for others facing similar challenges.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Have a diagnosis of oral, oropharyngeal, or nasopharyngeal cancer
• • Be scheduled to undergo cancer treatment that includes radiation therapy
• • Be able to read and understand English
• • Be an Alberta resident.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Previous surgery for the temporomandibular joint that is not related to the HNC diagnosis.
• • Local cancer recurrence or metastatic disease.
• • Unable to provide informed consent.