Evaluating the Impact of a Multimodal Therapeutic Exercise Program on Aerobic Capacity and Quality of Life in Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy from Paclitaxel and Carboplatin drugs.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) is a common and debilitating side effect of chemotherapy, affecting up to 60% of patients and significantly impairing their quality of life. This randomized controlled trail aimed to assess the effectiveness of a multimodal therapeutic exercise program in managing CIPN in patients undergoing treatment with Paclitaxel and Carboplatin. The study included participants aged 25 to 55 years with Grade 2 to 3 CIPN as per the WHO classification. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (IG) that received a multimodal exercise regimen or a control group (CG) that underwent standard physiotherapy for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were measured using the FACT-TAXANE version 4 and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, assessed pre- and post- intervention Results showed that the multimodal exercise program was significantly more effective than conventional physiotherapy in reducing TUG scores and improving FACT-TAXANE scores across all domains, including physical, social, emotional and functional well-being (p <0.0001). the IG demonstrated marked improvements in sensory-motor functions, aerobic conditioning, and overall quality of life with significant reduction in neuropathy symptoms. In conclusion, this study provides strong evidence supporting the incorporation of a multimodal therapeutic exercise program as a valuable strategy for improving functional performance and quality of life in cancer patients with CIPN, offering healthcare professionals an effective intervention to manage this condition.