One massage session may ease shoulder pain after breast cancer

NCT ID NCT06679400

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Michigan Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether a 30-minute myofascial massage can reduce shoulder stiffness and improve blood flow in breast cancer survivors who have myofascial pain. Twenty-one women who had completed breast cancer treatment 3 months to 2 years earlier received one massage session. Researchers used ultrasound to measure muscle stiffness and blood flow before and after the massage, and also surveyed participants about their satisfaction.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: myofascial massage
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to ease shoulder pain and stiffness in breast cancer survivors.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 21 participants and no control group, so results may not apply widely. The massage is a one-time session, so long-term benefits are unknown.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

breast cancer Facial Pain myofascial pain syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PAIN, MYOFACIAL

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States

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