The effectiveness of hand therapy for breast cancer survivors experiencing aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome in the hands and wrists.

Background: Musculoskeletal problems, or aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome, in the hands and wrists is a known side effect of aromatase inhibitor medication, often prescribed for 5years or more for breast cancer survivors. No studies were found on the effectiveness of hand therapy for breast cancer survivors experiencing aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome in the hands and wrists.

Purpose: The primary objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of hand therapy on reducing hand and wrist pain, improving grip strength, improving upper extremity function, and improving health related quality of life in breast cancer survivors diagnosed with aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome in the hands and wrists.