Sensory-Enhanced Balance Training versus Conventional Balance Training for Improving Balance and Quality of Life in Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent side effect of cancer treatment, significantly affecting patient balance, mobility, and quality of life. Despite the potential of exercise-based interventions is known to affect the symptoms of CIPN, the comparative efficacy of adding sensory-enhanced balance training remains unexplored.
Objective: The objective of present study evaluates the comparative efficacy of Sensory-Enhanced Balance Training versus conventional balance training in improving balance and quality of life in patients undergoing treatment with paclitaxel and carboplatin.
Methods: A single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial with 72 participants with grade 2-3 CIPN were randomized to receive either sensory-enhanced balance training (intervention group) or conventional balance training (control group). Both interventions were given be conducted 4 times weekly over 8 weeks. Primary outcomes include balance performance (Modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance (mCTSIB), Timed Up and Go test) and quality of life (EORTC QLQ-CIPN20). Statistical analysis was conducted using paired and unpaired t-tests.
Results: The intervention group exhibited significantly greater improvements in balance (p- 0.0001) and quality of life (p<0.0001) as compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Sensory-enhanced balance training is superior to balance training alone in improving balance and a valuable intervention to improve the quality of life in cancer patients.