One massage session may ease shoulder pain after breast cancer

NCT ID NCT06679400

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States