Changes in Pain and Muscle Architecture in Colon Cancer Survivors After a Lumbopelvic Exercise Program: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

To investigate the efficacy of an eight-week lumbopelvic stabilization program (CO-CUIDATE) for colon cancer survivors. A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial. A blinded, trained researcher performed the end point assessments for pain (Pressure Pain Threshold and Brief Pain Inventory) and muscle architecture (ultrasound imaging measurements). Forty-six colon cancer survivors who were assigned to the CO-CUIDATE group or usual care group. The CO-CUIDATE program was conducted for eight weeks. A trained researcher who was blinded to patient group performed the assessments. The tests were carried out with multiple observations. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed. The program had an adherence rate of 88.36% and two dropouts (10.5%). The participants reported some minor side effects during the first exercise sessions. The analysis revealed significant differences in the group x time interactions for the lumbar side (dominant: F = 3.1, P The CO-CUIDATE program is effective for improving the musculoskeletal conditions related to the lumbopelvic area in colon cancer survivors, specifically in relation to pain and the internal oblique thickness.