Self-acupressure for patients with breast cancer experiencing aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal symptoms: Protocol for the AcuAIM randomized pilot trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Aromatase inhibitors (AI) reduce hormone receptor-positive breast cancer recurrence risk by about 50%. However, half of AI-treated postmenopausal women report new or worsened musculoskeletal symptoms (AIMSS), and 20% discontinue therapy prematurely. Acupuncture is effective for reducing symptoms, but many women are not able to access acupuncture therapy. We hypothesize that self-administered acupressure will reduce AIMSS.

Materials and methods

Postmenopausal women who have been receiving treatment with an AI for more than 3 weeks but less than 2 years, and who report new or worsened joint pain or myalgias since starting AI therapy with worst pain of at least 4 out of 10 on a numerical rating scale, are eligible. Fifty participants will be enrolled and randomized 1

SUBMITTER: Henry NL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11753630 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature