Occupational Therapy Modulates the Pain in Cancer Patient Under Palliative Care

Pain Clinical Trial

Official title: Occupational Therapy Modulates the Pain in Cancer Patient Under Palliative

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

Pain is one of the most incapacitating symptoms because it is a complex experience that includes sensory and emotional perceptions, in which sensory, affective, cognitive, behavioral, cultural and social characteristics interact. Around 79% of advanced cancer cases present pain.

There is evidence that non-pharmacological therapeutic activities are useful for controlling oncological pain and other symptoms resulting from such diseases.

This study evaluated the results relating to pain modulation and improvement of emotional symptoms and quality of life, from an occupational therapy program applied to oncological patients who were receiving palliative care.

Clinical Trial Description

Occupational therapy provides a variety of practical and psychosocial interventions to enable individuals to adapt to the difficulties that result from advanced disease. In this form of therapy, the use of certain manual play activities are highlighted as a working tool, with the aim of intervening in relation to the limitations and/or physical and psychological diseases. Such interventions may transform some of these patients' interests in life, facilitate the development of undiscovered talents and skills and allow them to discover their artistic, artisanal or physical potentials.

The role and interventions of occupational therapy within palliative care are wide-ranging and challenging, with a vocation to help individuals to value the remainder of their lives and live for the present moment in the best way possible, through providing options for them to keep themselves in a physical and emotional condition that allows them to carry out activities that would be gratifying and stimulating. The effects from this will assist them in preparing for the end of life with more dignity and respect.

The relevance of occupational therapy interventions in relation to oncology and, in particular, palliative care has been little studied. However, it is known that this may contribute towards improving the quality of life in interpersonal relationships and diminishing pain and distress, through providing guidance regarding activities of daily living and through the use of therapeutic activities, especially in relation to hospitalization processes. ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Safety Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Open Label, Primary Purpose: Supportive Care

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Cancer
• Pain
• Terminal Disease

• NCT number: NCT02102178
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Barretos Cancer Hospital
• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 2
• Start date: July 2007
• Completion date: November 2008