Whole Body Vibration for Peripheral Neuropathy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether whole body vibration (WBV) therapy can help individuals with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, a condition causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet after cancer treatment. The researchers aim to determine if WBV can improve mobility, reduce pain, and potentially aid weight loss. Participants will either receive WBV treatment or continue with their usual care for comparison. This trial may suit cancer survivors who have experienced neuropathy symptoms after chemotherapy within the last five years. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative therapies that could enhance the quality of life for cancer survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if your medication use contraindicates (goes against) participation in low intensity exercise or whole body vibration, you may be considered ineligible.
What prior data suggests that whole body vibration is safe for improving health in participants with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy?
Research shows that whole body vibration (WBV) is generally safe. Studies have found that WBV can safely build bone in people with low bone density without medication. It also serves as a safe exercise option for older adults, enhancing strength and balance. Some WBV machines include safety features like handrails for added support.
However, some readily available WBV devices might not meet safety standards, so using the right equipment is important. Overall, WBV is considered safe for most people, but following guidelines and using equipment designed with safety in mind is crucial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about whole body vibration (WBV) as a potential treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy because it offers a unique, non-invasive approach compared to existing options like medications and physical therapy. Unlike traditional treatments that primarily focus on symptom management, WBV uses mechanical vibrations to possibly improve nerve function and reduce pain through gentle physical exercises. This innovative method could lead to enhanced quality of life for patients by potentially providing faster relief and increased mobility without the side effects often associated with medication.
What evidence suggests that whole body vibration is effective for improving health and functioning in participants with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy?
Research shows that whole body vibration (WBV), which participants in this trial may receive, can enhance muscle strength and physical performance, potentially benefiting those with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Studies have found that WBV aids in weight loss, improves mobility, and reduces pain, making it promising for individuals experiencing numbness or tingling in their hands and feet due to CIPN. Clinical trials have found WBV to be safe and effective, with improvements observed in conditions like knee osteoarthritis, suggesting it might also help with CIPN. While more research is needed to understand exactly how WBV affects CIPN, early results about its ability to relieve pain and improve movement are encouraging.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kerri Winters-Stone, PhD
Principal Investigator
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive whole body vibration (WBV) sessions or usual care for 12 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Whole Body Vibration
Whole Body Vibration is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery (ACLR)
- Improvement of quadriceps muscle function
- Enhancement of gait biomechanics
- Reduction of post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis risk
- Rehabilitation following ACLR
- Improvement of neuromuscular performance
- Enhancement of proprioception and postural stability
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Lead Sponsor
Oregon Health and Science University
Collaborator