Innovative Study at UPNA Aims to Improve Arm Function After Breast Cancer
Researchers at the Public University of Navarra (UPNA) are embarking on a groundbreaking study to explore innovative therapies for women experiencing arm problems following breast cancer. Funded by the Health Department of the Government of Navarra, this study, named IMOA-23, seeks to understand if therapies based on imagination and movement observation can alleviate symptoms such as loss of strength, mobility, lymphedema, pain, and functional limitations.
The Science Behind the Study
The study focuses on the potential benefits of imaginative and observational therapies. These therapies leverage the brain’s plasticity to enhance physical recovery. By engaging in mental exercises that simulate movements, participants may experience improved motor function and reduced pain.
Did you know? Mental imagery has been shown to activate the same neural pathways as physical movement, making it a powerful tool in rehabilitation.
Eligibility and Participation
The IMOA-23 study has specific inclusion criteria:
- Age: Women over 18 years old
- Medical History: Must have had breast cancer and completed active treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical intervention)
- Exclusion Criteria: Participants with a recurrence, metastasis, or a diagnosis of a different type of cancer are not eligible
Participants will undergo three face-to-face sessions where their strength, mobility, arm diameter, pain, and imagination ability will be evaluated. They will also fill out questionnaires about their symptomatology.
The Research Team
The UPNA group is led by researcher and nurse María Pilar Arnal Vallés, along with her thesis directors: Nely Soto Ruiz, Paula Escalada Hernández, and Leticia San Martín Rodríguez. The team also includes teachers Ana Beatriz Bays Moneo, Cristina García Vivar, Mª Rosario Orzanco Garralda, and Amaia Saralegui Gainza, all of whom are affiliated with the UPNA Health Department and the Inno-Care Research Group.
Future Trends in Breast Cancer Rehabilitation
The IMOA-23 study is part of a broader trend in healthcare that emphasizes non-invasive, mind-body therapies. As research continues, we can expect to see more studies exploring the intersection of mental imagery and physical rehabilitation. This approach not only offers a novel way to address post-cancer symptoms but also aligns with the growing interest in holistic and integrative medicine.
Pro Tip: Engaging in mental imagery exercises can be a complementary therapy to traditional rehabilitation methods, offering a non-invasive way to enhance recovery.
Table: Key Information on the IMOA-23 Study
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Name | IMOA-23 |
| Funding | Health Department of the Government of Navarra |
| Eligibility | Women over 18, completed breast cancer treatments |
| Exclusion Criteria | Recurrence, metastasis, other cancer diagnoses |
| Evaluation Sessions | Three face-to-face sessions |
| Contact Information | Email: proyecto.imoa@gmail.com Phone: 644918879 |
FAQ Section
Q: How can I participate in the IMOA-23 study?
A: Interested participants can fill out the form available on the study’s website. For more information, contact proyecto.imoa@gmail.com or call 644918879.
Q: What are the benefits of imaginative therapies?
A: Imaginative therapies can help improve motor function, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life by leveraging the brain’s plasticity.
Q: Are there any risks involved in the study?
A: The study is non-invasive and focuses on mental exercises, making it a low-risk intervention.
Reader Question
Have you or someone you know experienced arm problems after breast cancer? Share your story in the comments below.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is eligible for the IMOA-23 study, consider participating to contribute to this important research. For more information on breast cancer rehabilitation, explore our other articles and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
