Aerobic exercise and aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal symptoms: results of a randomized clinical trial

Purpose

Women taking aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for breast cancer often suffer from joint pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness. This study looked at whether aerobic exercise can help reduce these symptoms.

Methods

In this study, 136 postmenopausal women with breast cancer were divided into two groups: one group did moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for 6 months, while the other group received usual care. We measured pain levels before and after the exercise program.

Results

Women in the exercise group did not show significant increases in pain, while those in the usual care group experienced more pain over time. Specifically, the control group had more women reporting a noticeable increase in pain severity and worst pain.

Conclusion

Starting aerobic exercise early in AI therapy may help prevent pain from getting worse and could reduce overall pain levels in women with breast cancer.

Key Findings

Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise can help manage pain for postmenopausal women undergoing AI therapy. Not exercising may lead to increased use of pain medications.

Opportunities for Clinics and Patients

Based on the trial data, clinics can:

Set clear goals for incorporating aerobic exercise into treatment plans.
Select AI tools that meet specific clinical needs.
Implement a step-by-step approach, starting with pilot projects to track results.