Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Hatha Yoga in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of Hatha Yoga in Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Treatment for head and neck cancer can result in marked musculo-skeletal impairment (MSI). This study will examine the effects of Hatha Yoga as a therapeutic modality to address MSI.

The use of aggressive treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) particularly combined modality treatment regimens has resulted in an increase in survival. Unfortunately, this improvement has come with a marked increase in acute and late-effects. Acute HNC treatment-related toxicities have been clearly and extensively documented; however, data pertaining to adverse late-effects, those most likely to impact the survivor's long term symptom burden, functionality, and overall quality of life (QOL), are limited. This pilot study will be conducted to examine the feasibility of tailored Hatha Yoga as a therapeutic modality to address MSI in patients who have survived HNC.

Inclusion Criteria:

• >/= 18 years of age
• >3 months post-treatment of HNC
• no active cancer
• ability to understand English in order to complete questionnaires
• willing to participate in the guided and home Yoga practice
• willing to drive to the study site
• willing and able to provide informed consent
• completed medically indicated physical therapy
• medical clearance by study medical oncologist

Exclusion Criteria:

• a prior cancer diagnosis within the past three years (except basal cell, surgically treated squamous cell skin cancer, early prostate cancer under observation)
• have received radiation therapy or chemotherapy for any condition other than primary HNC
• medical conditions that would prohibit the safe implementation of a Yoga practice (e.g., vertigo, dementia)
• active Yoga practice within the past 6 months