Sensorimotor Training Using Whole Body Vibration Exercise to Reduce Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy

SensiEx - Sensorimotor Training Using Whole Body Vibration Exercise to Reduce Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy After Treatment for Breast Cancer a Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

CIPN is induced by neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents and manifests with sensory and/or motor deficits. It is associated with significant disability and poor recovery. Common symptoms include pain, altered sensation, reduced or absent reflexes, muscle weakness, reduced balance control and insecure gait. The purpose of the study is to compare effects of sensory vibrations training to conventional aerobic and strenght exercise on neurophatic symptoms related to chemotherapy treatment.

Aim: To (a) compare the effects of WBV exercise compared to regular cardiovascular and resistance exercise (CAR) on the primary outcome of (a) CIPN symptoms and secondary outcomes of (b) balance, physical function, and quality of life.

Based on previous pilot study findings, we hypothesize that WBV exercise compared to CAR will reduce relevant symptoms to a larger degree, such as the loss of peripheral deep sensitivity, pain, weakened or absent reflexes and loss of balance control (aim a) and that patients will experience an improvement in physical function and quality of life (aim b).

The study employs a prospective, multicenter, two-armed, randomized controlled design. Study participants will be informed about the study procedure and sign a written informed consent. Patients will then be assigned randomly either to the WBV group or the CAR group. Patients allocated to the WBV group receive a defined WBV exercise program twice a week in addition to their usual treatment. Patients in conventional aerobic and resistance exercise (CAR) group will receive a defined exercise program twice a week in addition to their usual treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with breast cancer, aged 18-80 years,
• Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-2,
• completed chemotherapy in the past 3 months. Experiencing symptoms of CIPN

Exclusion Criteria:

• pre-existing neuropathy of other cause (eg, diabetes),
• given contraindications for WBV including instable bone metastases and severe cardiovascular disease.