Tai Chi for Multiple Myeloma

Recruiting at 1 trial location

Overseen By Ashley Larsen, MS

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: University of Arizona

Disqualifiers: Tai Chi, Depression, Anxiety, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 2

Duration: 14 weeks

12 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial aims to see if Tai Chi Easy can help improve immune function and quality of life in multiple myeloma patients who are undergoing stem cell transplants.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

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 data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Tai Chi Easy for Multiple Myeloma?

Research suggests that Tai Chi, a gentle exercise combining movement and meditation, may help improve quality of life, reduce fatigue, and enhance psychological well-being in cancer patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy. While specific studies on Multiple Myeloma are lacking, these benefits observed in other cancer types suggest potential positive effects. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Is Tai Chi safe for cancer survivors?

Tai Chi is generally considered safe for cancer survivors, as it is a light-to-moderate intensity exercise that has been studied for its potential benefits on fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life without significant safety concerns. ^{3 4 6 7 8}

How does Tai Chi differ from other treatments for multiple myeloma?

Tai Chi is a unique treatment for multiple myeloma as it is a form of gentle exercise that focuses on improving quality of life and reducing symptoms like fatigue and distress, rather than directly targeting the cancer itself. Unlike conventional treatments, it is non-invasive and can be practiced in group settings, providing both physical and psychosocial benefits. ^{6 7 9 10 11}

Research Team

Krisstina Gowin, DO

Principal Investigator

University of Arizona

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for English-speaking adults over 18 with Multiple Myeloma who are about to have a bone marrow transplant and can do basic physical activities (ECOG status 0-1). They must be able to attend Tai Chi sessions. People with recent fainting, severe depression or anxiety, regular Tai Chi/Qi Gong/Yoga practice, chronic dizziness, frequent falls, or serious neuropathy cannot join.

Inclusion Criteria

I have Multiple Myeloma and am planning to have a bone marrow transplant.

English speaking

General proficiency to read/write in English

Exclusion Criteria

I have severe nerve pain or damage.

I have been diagnosed with major depression or an anxiety disorder.

I have fainted in the last 60 days.

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive Tai Chi Easy (TCE) intervention, including two 30-minute small group training sessions via Zoom within 7 days of their scheduled transplant, followed by self-directed practice with provided materials.

14 weeks

2 visits (virtual)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for immune function, NK cell activity, and phenotype through peripheral blood analysis.

14 weeks

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Tai Chi Easy

Trial Overview The TOTOM Trial is testing whether practicing Tai Chi Easy can improve immune function and quality of life in patients undergoing stem cell transplants for Multiple Myeloma. Participants will attend designated Tai Chi training sessions as part of the study.

Participant Groups

Group I: Tai Chi Easy Intervention Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Tai Chi Easy: TCE is a standardized protocol used in several prior studies. TCE has been manualized and has a formal training program for instructors. The protocol is taught as a series of repeated and simple-to-learn movements. Patients will receive two 30-minute small group training sessions (Via Zoom) within 7 days of their scheduled transplant. After the training has been completed the participant will be provided with written (via manual) and electronic (DVD, MP3 file download) materials to continue with self-direct practice throughout the duration of the study.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Arizona

Lead Sponsor

Trials

545

Recruited

161,000+

References

1. Netherlands pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Tai chi for breast cancer patients: a systematic review. [2022]

2. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Feasibility and effects of a tai chi self-help education program for Korean gastric cancer survivors [2019]

3. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The effect of Tai Chi practice on immunological function in cancer survivors: A protocol for systematic review. [2022]

4. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Influence of Tai Chi on Self-Efficacy, Quality of Life, and Fatigue Among Patients With Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy: A Pilot Study Brief. [2020]

5. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Effectiveness of Tai Chi in Patients With Breast Cancer: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. [2021]

6. Germany pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The effects of Tai Chi on quality of life of cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. [2021]

7. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Blood pressure, salivary cortisol, and inflammatory cytokine outcomes in senior female cancer survivors enrolled in a tai chi chih randomized controlled trial. [2021]

8. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Tai Chi for cancer survivors: A systematic review toward consensus-based guidelines. [2022]

9. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of Center-Based Delivery of Tai Chi and Qi Gong Group Classes on Self-Reported Symptoms in Cancer Patients and Caregivers. [2021]

10. Germany pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Is Tai Chi an effective adjunct in cancer care? A systematic review of controlled clinical trials. [2022]

11. Switzerland pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Tai Chi Chuan for breast cancer survivors. [2021]