Moving On - An RCT to Test Physical Therapy Education

"Moving On" - A Randomized Controlled Trial for Acceptability and Feasibility of an Early Physical Therapy Education Intervention for Breast Cancer Surgical Candidates

The purpose of this study is to test the acceptability, feasibility and explore the possible effects of an early physical therapy education intervention for breast cancer survivors.

This study uses a randomized controlled and longitudinal study design. We will compare two groups - an intervention group and a control group - to test the effects of an early physical therapy education intervention for breast cancer survivors who are candidates for breast cancer surgery. Because of the nature of the intervention (patient early education with 1:1 discussion of educational materials) we will be unable to introduce blinding of the participant as well as the staff.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Newly diagnosed with unilateral breast cancer
• Candidate for breast cancer surgery as first line of cancer treatment
• Undergo breast cancer surgery at Brigham and Woman's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
• Female
• English speaking
• Greater than or equal to 21 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous history of breast cancer and/or recurrent/metastatic disease
• Receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment
• Bilateral breast cancer
• History of shoulder impairments or severe upper quarter scarring
• Pregnancy
• Central nervous system damage
• Dementia
• History of other previous cancers (except non-melanoma skin)
• Systemic medical conditions (e.g.: fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.)
• Amputation of either upper extremity