Whole Body Vibration versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Study Protocol

Background: Peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapeutic agents presents a significant clinical challenge in oncology, severely impairing patient well-being and functional independence. Despite various pharmacological interventions, their efficacy remains limited, necessitating the exploration of nonpharmacological approaches. Whole-body vibration (WBV) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) have shown promise in alleviating neuropathic pain and improving sensorimotor function in other conditions, but their effectiveness in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) remains unclear. This protocol outlines a study designed to compare the efficacy of WBV versus PNF on neuropathic pain, sensory function, balance, and enhancing overall quality of life. Methodology: A prospective, two-armed, randomized clinical trial will be conducted over 3 weeks, recruiting 38 participants diagnosed with CIPN. Participants will be randomly allocated to either a WBV group (Group A) or a PNF group (Group B), with both groups receiving standard physiotherapy exercises. The primary outcomes, neuropathic pain (self-report Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs); sensory function (Semmes–Weinstein monofilament); balance (mini balance evaluation system test); and quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group Neurotoxicity), will be assessed at baseline and after 3 weeks of interventions. Statistical analysis will determine within-group and between-group differences. Discussion: The study seeks to establish the comparative effectiveness of WBV and PNF in mitigating CIPN symptoms. If found to be beneficial, these physiotherapeutic interventions could provide a cost-effective, nonpharmacological alternative to managing CIPN. This trial will contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting exercise-based interventions for CIPN management, potentially shaping future physiotherapeutic strategies for oncology care. Trial Registration: Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI/2024/07/071675).