NCT06749210 · Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
DAANCE FOR CHEMOTHERAPY-INDUCED NEUROPATHY
(DAANCE)
What this study is about
Up to 80% of breast cancer survivors experience chemotherapy-induced neuropathy that impairs quality of life and increases fall risk long into survivorship, yet treatment options for neuropathy remain limited. The successful treatment will target neurophysiologic mechanisms for restoring function while addressing patient-reported symptoms and participation in treatment.
View original scientific description
Up to 80% of breast cancer survivors experience chemotherapy-induced neuropathy that impairs quality of life and increases fall risk long into survivorship, yet treatment options for neuropathy remain limited. The successful treatment will target neurophysiologic mechanisms for restoring function while addressing patient-reported symptoms and participation in treatment. Toward this end, the investigators propose to study a noninvasive, social sensorimotor intervention - Adapted Argentine Tango - which targets motor control restoration, symptom alleviation, and treatment participation in concert.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Tango
The intervention being studied is a 16 session intervention (2x4-week modules), delivered over an 8-week period by community-based individuals with expertise in dance and patient care and certified in Adapted Tango or AdapTango dance instruction. Steps available to teach, including order and cues to teach them, are detailed in Hackney's AdapTango manual. All steps are based on the Argentine Tango steps that emerged within working class community centers in Buenos Aires, Argentina (milongas) in the late 1800s and have been adapted by the investigators for use as medical exercise among people with mobility deficits. Of note, Argentine Tango is distinct from, and the precursor for, the American Tango style of competitive ballroom dance: where American Tango highlights showmanship and complicated footwork, Argentine Tango prioritizes connection between partners and musicality within a basic walk motion.
Primary outcome measures
Patient-Reported Outcome (PRO) - CIN sensation
Time frame: 4 weeks
Sensation of numbness/tingling on 0-10 scale; minimum value 0 (no numbness/tingling); maximum value 10 (worst numbness/tingling)
Dual-task function
Time frame: 4 weeks
Ability to move and think at the same time as measured by time to complete the Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) test with concurrent cognitive task (i.e., counting backward by some number while completing a defined movement task)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Breast Cancer (BC) diagnosis of Stage I-IV including metastatic disease
- completed taxane-based chemotherapy for BC at least 3 months ago (no limit on how long ago)
- symptomatic for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (self-report)
- postural control score that indicates potential fall-risk
- able to understand and comply with directions associated with testing and study treatments
Exclusion criteria
- pre-existing vestibular dysfunction
- poorly controlled diabetes (hgA1C\>=8)
- non-ambulatory (assistive and prosthetic devices allowed)
- hearing impairment resulting in less than 10% hearing bilaterally
- contraindication to participate in the experimental physical activity per the treating oncologist due to additional condition (e.g., herniated disc, unstable bone metastases)
- currently in activity-based therapy (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy). May enroll if still meet eligibility criteria once activity-based therapy is complete.
Where
- New Haven, Connecticut
- Columbus, Ohio
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA), Yale University, Emory University
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 5, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations