Pilates versus Gyrotonic Expansion System on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and fall risk.

In 30 seconds

This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of Pilates and Gyrotonic Expansion System (GES) on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and fall risk in 96 cancer survivors. After 12 weeks, both exercise groups showed significant pain reduction, with Pilates also improving grip strength beyond the minimum clinically important difference (MCID).

Key findings

• Pilates and GES groups both achieved significant pain reduction with confidence intervals of (1.5: 3.38) and (1.51: 3.39), respectively.
• The Pilates group demonstrated a significant improvement in grip strength, exceeding the MCID.
• Both exercise groups surpassed the MCID on the Four-Square Step Test, indicating meaningful gains in functional mobility.

Why it matters

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy can severely impact quality of life and increase fall risk in cancer survivors. Effective exercise interventions like Pilates may help mitigate these effects, enhancing patient outcomes.