Dr. Fiona Streckmann’s Team Finds Exercises Can Prevent Nerve Damage in Cancer Patients

A German research team led by Dr. Fiona Streckmann from the University of Basel has discovered that specific exercises can prevent nerve damage caused by cancer treatments. This damage, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), affects many patients undergoing chemotherapy.

The Study

The study involved 158 cancer patients who were receiving treatment with either oxaliplatin or vinca-alkaloids. The patients were divided into three groups: a control group receiving standard care, and two exercise groups. The exercise groups performed sessions twice a week, focusing on balance and vibration plate exercises.

Key Findings

The results showed that the exercise groups had a 50-70% lower incidence of CIPN compared to the control group. Additionally, the exercises improved patients’ quality of life, reduced the need to lower chemotherapy doses, and decreased mortality rates over five years.

Future Implications

Dr. Streckmann and her team are now working on guidelines to integrate these exercises into clinical practice. They are also conducting a study in children’s hospitals to prevent sensory and motor dysfunctions in young patients receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy.

Dr. Streckmann emphasizes the underestimated potential of physical activity in cancer treatment and hopes that more sports therapists will be employed in hospitals to harness this potential.