Feasibility Testing of a Tai Chi Program for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment (TCT)

Launched by DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE · Jan 29, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a 12-week virtual Tai Chi program on cancer survivors who have developed a condition known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). CIPN can cause pain, numbness, and balance issues in patients after they have received certain chemotherapy treatments. The goal of the study is to see if participating in this Tai Chi program can help improve balance and nerve function for those dealing with these symptoms.

To be eligible for the trial, participants must be at least 18 years old and have completed specific chemotherapy treatments at least three months prior to joining. They should also be cancer survivors with a diagnosis of CIPN, and feel that their balance is affected by this condition. Participants will need to attend a couple of in-person visits related to the study and may be randomly assigned to either the Tai Chi group or a waitlist group. It's important to note that those who have had recent physical therapy or Tai Chi training for CIPN will not be eligible to participate. This study aims to explore a new, gentle way to help improve the quality of life for those affected by CIPN.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age \> 18 years old
• • Cancer survivors with no evidence of disease (cancer);
• • Completed neurotoxic chemotherapy, i.e., platinum agents, taxanes, vinca alkaloids, and bortezomib, at least three months before enrollment;
• • A CIPN diagnosis based on symptom history, loss of deep tendon reflexes, or presence of symmetrical stocking-glove pain, numbness, or paresthesia;
• • Answers "yes" to the following question: "Do you feel as though your balance is affected from experiencing CIPN?" "Are you afraid of falling as a result of your CIPN?";
• • On a stable regimen (no change in past three months) if taking anti- neuropathy or other pain medications; and
• • ECOG Performance Status Scale score ≤ 2
• • Willing to adhere to all study-related procedures, including randomization to the Tai Chi or waitlist group, two separate in- person visits to DFCI and Osher Center within 2 weeks of enrollment, and separate in-person visits to DFCI and Osher Center at week 12, and no new pain medication allowed throughout the study period.
• • Note: Participants receiving endocrine therapy or targeted/antibody therapy (examples including trastuzumab, perturzumab, immunotherapy) will be eligible.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • -Patients who have received physical therapy or Tai Chi training, specifically for CIPN, in the past three months.