Overview
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common and dose-limiting side effect of neurotoxic chemotherapy (ie, taxanes, vinca alkaloids, platinum, and bortezomib) that interferes with patients' daily function and worsens quality of life (1-3). In a study of 512 cancer survivors, 47% reported persistent neuropathy up to 6 years after chemotherapy completion. Furthermore, these survivors exhibited altered gait patterns with slower and shorter steps, as well as a fall risk 1.8-fold greater than that of those without CIPN (4). In another study, 12% of cancer survivors with CIPN reported falls within a 3-month period (5). These evidences highlight the need for an effective treatment for CIPN to improve quality of life and safety among cancer survivors. Current empirical treatments for CIPN include symptom management with analgesics, antidepressants, and antiepileptics (6). However, these approaches are limited not only by toxicities but also by patients' reluctance to further medicate a medication-related condition.
Description
Pilates can be an effective intervention to address patients received chemotherapy and the associated increased risk of falls. CIPN is a common side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs, characterized by nerve damage that leads to symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness primarily in the hands and feet. These symptoms significantly impact balance and mobility, increasing the risk of falls. Pilates, with its focus on core strength, balance, flexibility, and controlled movement, can help mitigate these effects. The slow, deliberate movements in Pilates improve proprioception and strengthen the core and lower extremities, which are crucial for maintaining balance and stability. Regular Pilates practice can enhance postural alignment and muscle coordination, which can reduce the risk of falls in individuals experiencing CIPN.
Pilates can be an effective intervention to address chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and the associated increased risk of falls. CIPN is a common side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs, characterized by nerve damage that leads to symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness primarily in the hands and feet. These symptoms significantly impact balance and mobility, increasing the risk of falls. Pilates, with its focus on core strength, balance, flexibility, and controlled movement, can help mitigate these effects. The slow, deliberate movements in Pilates improve proprioception and strengthen the core and lower extremities, which are crucial for maintaining balance and stability. Regular Pilates practice can enhance postural alignment and muscle coordination, which can reduce the risk of falls in individuals experiencing CIPN.
The Gyrotonic Expansion System (GES) is an innovative movement methodology that is gaining attention for its potential benefits in addressing chemotherapy side effects, result in numbness, tingling, and pain in the extremities, significantly affecting balance and increasing fall risk. The GES involves fluid, spiraling movements designed to enhance flexibility, strength, coordination, and balance. By promoting increased circulation and nerve stimulation, these movements may help alleviate the symptoms of chemotherapy, potentially improving patient outcomes. The system's focus on core strength and alignment can also aid in stabilizing posture, thereby reducing the likelihood of falls.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults aged 18-65 years
- Diagnosed with CIPN
- Completed at least 3 cycles of chemotherapy
- Ability to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
- Severe neuropathy requiring pharmacological intervention
- Concurrent participation in another physical therapy regimen
- Any medical condition contraindicating physical exercise.