Overview

The purpose of this study is to examine how a 12-week, virtual dance program may improve pain and quality of life in participants with persistent post-surgical pain, or PPSP, following mastectomy or lumpectomy.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• History of Stage 0-III invasive breast cancer
• Having undergone lumpectomy or mastectomy
• Moderate to severe persistent post-surgical pain, as defined by pain scores ≥3 on a numerical rating scale (NRS) of 0-10 (10 being the most severe pain) at least 3 months after completion of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation
• Pain scores of 3-4 are categorized as moderate pain; scores of 5-10 are categorized as severe pain26
• Age ≥ 18 years
• Able to read and understand English (to complete required questionnaires and participate in classes)
• Ability to provide informed consent
• Ability to perform seated exercises

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unstable cardiovascular disease in the last 6 months
• Psychiatric disorders or conditions that would preclude participation in the study intervention (e.g. untreated major depression or psychosis, untreated substance use disorder, severe personality disorder)
• Metastatic breast or other concurrent cancer
• Pregnant
• Recent history of attending regular dance or similar classes (e.g. yoga or tai chi classes i.e. 20 or more classes in the past 6 months)
• Planned surgery anticipated during the intervention period
• History of a chronic medical condition that has the potential to significantly impact upper extremity function (e.g. stroke, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis)
• Currently enrolled in a physical therapy course
• Presence of medical conditions or medications that would prohibit participation in an exercise program