Long-Term Multidisciplinary Physiotherapy for Breast Cancer Survivors: Evaluation of the 12-Month Effectiveness on Pain, Upper Limb Function, and Cancer-Related Fatigue in a Multi-Center, Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial
This multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the long-term (12-month) effectiveness of a standardized multidisciplinary physiotherapy program versus standard care on persistent pain, upper limb (UL) dysfunction, and cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in breast cancer survivors. The study also examines improvements in quality of life and psychological well-being. The standardized intervention combines specific exercise therapy, manual therapy, education, and mind-body interventions and is designed to produce sustained benefits beyond the acute rehabilitation phase.
• Women aged between 18 and 65 years. History of breast cancer surgery (with or without axillary lymph node dissection).
• Completed acute cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation) at least 6 months prior to enrollment.
• Currently in the survivorship phase, with no active evidence of disease.
• Experiencing persistent sequelae related to treatment, such as:
• Moderate to severe pain (e.g., VAS score ≥ 30 on a 0-100 scale), and/or Upper limb dysfunction, and/or Cancer-related fatigue (as measured by FACIT-Fatigue). Able to understand and provide written informed consent.