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Shaji K. Kumar, MD
Prashant Kapoor, MD, FACP
Shaji K. Kumar, MD
Prashant Kapoor, MD, FACP
Posted: Wednesday, December 27, 2023
Current investigative efforts have focused on identifying strategies to improve musculoskeletal pain in patients with multiple myeloma. According to a study published in the European Journal of Haematology, the use of individualized resistance training with a precision-based exercise program may prove to be of benefit in managing musculoskeletal pain in this patient population. Precision-based exercise programs improved patients’ self-efficiency in managing their musculoskeletal pain and reduced their need for pain medication, explained Ulrike Dapunt, MD, of Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany, and colleagues.
“Prediction of fracture risk and hence recommendations on physical exercise in myeloma patients might be improved by new engineering- and computational-based analyses in combination with clinical information on disease activity and physical performance,” the investigators concluded.
A total of 100 patients with multiple myeloma were recruited for the study. All patients received an interdisciplinary consultation for clinical evaluation, followed by their involvement in a precision-based exercise program. The precision-based exercise program incorporated activities focused on body awareness, stretching, resistance training, and coordination. Individualized regimens were designed for patients based on their physical capabilities. Participants were evaluated regularly using the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score and Mirels’ score for assessment of skeletal stability after a whole-body CT scan was performed. Following treatment, patients completed an interview to assess clinical status (n = 91).
Using the established scoring systems, 60% of patients were identified as having at least one spinal osteolysis deemed as potentially unstable or unstable. Following the implementation of the interdisciplinary consultation, the number of patients eligible for resistance training was significantly increased. Furthermore, musculoskeletal pain was significantly improved in 75% of patients who were actively engaged in precision-based exercise programs. When exercise was performed regularly, patients were more likely to discontinue their prescribed pain medications, according to the investigators.
Disclosure: The study authors reported no conflicts of interest.
European Journal of Haematology
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