Timing of shoulder exercises may boost recovery after neck cancer surgery

NCT ID NCT06852261

Ongoing Sponsor: National Taiwan University Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 21, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether starting scapular-focused exercises early after neck dissection helps head and neck cancer patients regain shoulder function better than waiting. Participants are adults aged 20–65 with shoulder issues after surgery. They will do weekly 60-minute exercises for 12 weeks, either soon after surgery or later. The goal is to see which timing improves shoulder movement and muscle function more.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: scapular-focused exercise
What this could lead to: If early referral proves better, it could establish a standard for starting shoulder rehab sooner after neck dissection, improving recovery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 30 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The exercise may not significantly improve outcomes over later referral.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms Motor Activity

As listed by the trial registrant

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

REHABILITATION

Contacts and locations

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Locations

National Taiwan Univerisity Hospital

Taipei, Taiwan
National Taiwan University Hospital

Taipei, Taiwan

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