EFFECT OF BALANCE TRAINING ON FUNCTIONAL ACTIVITIES AND SYMPTOMES OF CHEMOTHERAPY-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

Research Abstract

Purpose of the study: The aim of this studywasto evaluate the effect of balance training program on functional activitiesand symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer women. Methods:A total of 40 breast cancer women participated in the study. Their age was 40-50 years and their body mass index ranged from 25 to 34.9 kg/m2.They were randomly distributedinto two equal groups.Bothcontrol andstudy groupsreceived neurotoxic potential chemotherapy including paclitaxel and docetaxelfor at least 4 cycles within the previous 6 months and continued to receive their dose as an adjuvant therapy.In addition, thestudy groupreceived a balance training programfor 50-60 minutes, 2sessions/week for 12 weeks. Each patient was assessed using functional reach test and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy assessment tool (CIPNAT)before and after 12 weeks of the intervention protocol. Results:There was no significance difference (p>0.05) in the functional reach distance and interference items score and a significant increase (p<0.05) in the symptom experience items score of the control grouppost-treatment. However, there was a significant increase (P=0.0001) in the functional reach distanceanda significant decrease(P=0.0001) in the interference items score and symptom experience items score of the study group post-treatment.Compared to the control group, the study group showed more significant increase(P=0.0001)in thefunctional reach distance and a significant decrease (P=0.0001) in the interference items score and symptom experience items score. Conclusion:The balance training program is beneficial for improving the functional activities,and attenuating symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer women.

Research Keywords

Breast cancer, Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, Balance training.