Art and Physical Therapy for Bone Marrow Transplant Patients
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if combining art therapy with physical therapy benefits children who have recently undergone a bone marrow transplant. Some children will receive both art and physical therapy, while others will receive only physical therapy. Researchers will examine the effects of these therapies on emotional well-being, self-care, and mobility. Children aged 5 to 18 who are in the hospital recovering from a bone marrow transplant may be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for patients to contribute to innovative research that could improve recovery experiences for future patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that art and physical therapy are safe for children undergoing hematopoietic cell transplant?
Research has shown that both art therapy and physical therapy are generally safe and well-received by patients undergoing bone marrow transplants. Studies have found that physical activity can improve heart health, increase strength, and reduce tiredness in these patients, indicating that physical therapy is a safe choice.
Patients have shared positive experiences with art-making activities, suggesting art therapy is a safe and enjoyable part of their treatment. Additionally, research indicates that art activities can enhance mental health for bone marrow transplant patients.
Both therapies have been safely used in similar patient groups, with no reports of serious side effects when used together or separately. This makes them promising options for supporting patients during recovery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about combining art and physical therapy for bone marrow transplant patients because it offers a holistic approach that isn't typically part of standard care, which usually focuses on medications and conventional rehabilitation exercises. This treatment is unique because it uses creative art mediums like oil pastels and gouache to provide tactile and fluid experiences, potentially enhancing emotional well-being and stress relief. Additionally, the integration of art with physical therapy may improve patient engagement and motivation, offering a more enjoyable and personalized rehabilitation process.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for bone marrow transplant patients?
Research has shown that art therapy can aid patients undergoing bone marrow transplants. Studies have found that activities like drawing or painting improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and fatigue. These benefits can enhance overall quality of life. Art therapy also alleviates symptoms and stress related to treatment. In this trial, one group of participants will receive a combination of art and physical therapy, which may further enhance emotional well-being and improve self-care and mobility skills. Another group will receive only physical therapy.34678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Cindy Dodds, PhD
Principal Investigator
MUSC College of Health Professions
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 5-18 undergoing bone marrow transplant (HCT) for blood diseases, who are in the hospital treatment phase. It's not suitable for those with brain impairments like cerebral palsy, cognitive issues, or genetic conditions such as Down syndrome.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive daily art therapy and physical therapy or only physical therapy for 5 days per week for 2 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in self-care, mobility, and emotional state after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Art and Physical Therapy
- Physical Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Medical University of South Carolina
Lead Sponsor
National Endowment for the Arts, United States
Collaborator