Dance Study for Post-surgical Pain in Breast Cancer Survivors

Launched by DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE · Dec 26, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Dance Study is a clinical trial designed to explore how a 12-week virtual dance program can help improve pain and quality of life for women who have experienced persistent post-surgical pain after breast cancer surgery, such as a mastectomy or lumpectomy. The study aims to see if this enjoyable and gentle form of exercise can make a difference for those living with ongoing pain following their treatment.

To participate in this study, women aged 18 and older who have a history of early-stage invasive breast cancer may be eligible if they have been experiencing moderate to severe pain for at least three months after surgery. Participants will need to be able to read and understand English and perform seated exercises. This study is not yet recruiting, but it offers a unique opportunity for those struggling with pain to potentially find relief through movement and dance. If you or someone you know is interested, it’s a great chance to engage in a supportive program while contributing to important research.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • History of Stage 0-III invasive breast cancer
• • Having undergone lumpectomy or mastectomy
• • Moderate to severe persistent post-surgical pain, as defined by pain scores ≥3 on a numerical rating scale (NRS) of 0-10 (10 being the most severe pain) at least 3 months after completion of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation
• • Pain scores of 3-4 are categorized as moderate pain; scores of 5-10 are categorized as severe pain26
• • Age ≥ 18 years
• • Able to read and understand English (to complete required questionnaires and participate in classes)
• • Ability to provide informed consent
• • Ability to perform seated exercises
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unstable cardiovascular disease in the last 6 months
• • Psychiatric disorders or conditions that would preclude participation in the study intervention (e.g. untreated major depression or psychosis, untreated substance use disorder, severe personality disorder)
• • Metastatic breast or other concurrent cancer
• • Pregnant
• • Recent history of attending regular dance or similar classes (e.g. yoga or tai chi classes i.e. 20 or more classes in the past 6 months)
• • Planned surgery anticipated during the intervention period
• • History of a chronic medical condition that has the potential to significantly impact upper extremity function (e.g. stroke, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis)
• • Currently enrolled in a physical therapy course
• • Presence of medical conditions or medications that would prohibit participation in an exercise program