Pilot Study of Strength and Balance Training Program for Persons With Oxaliplatin Induced Neuropathy

A Pilot Study of a Strength and Balance Training Program for Persons With Oxaliplatin Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects on strength, balance, and neuropathic symptoms (numbness, tingling, pain, weakness) of a 12 week, bi-weekly, 60 minute, group exercise program designed to improve lower extremity strength and balance with persons with oxaliplatin induced peripheral neuropathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Prior history of colon cancer
• Completed oxaliplatin based chemotherapy at least 6 months prior to enrollment
• Report numbness, tingling, or pain of the lower extremities ≥ 4 by chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) Visual Analog Rating
• Karnofsky performance status of at least 60%
• Able to read, write, and understand English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients will be excluded from the study if they live outside of a 30 mile radius of the University of South Florida, if they are currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or if they regularly (at least once a week) participate in strength or balance training exercises. The investigators will not exclude participants if they are participating in aerobic exercise, but we will collect that information so that the investigators may control for aerobic exercise in our data analysis.