Randomized crossover clinical trial protocol to evaluate the immediate effects of electromassage on pain in hemato-oncological patients

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Electromassage combines electrical stimulation and therapeutic massage through conductive gloves and is considered a promising approach for pain management. However, its effects in individuals with hematologic cancer remain unknown. This protocol aims to evaluate the immediate effects of a single electromassage session on pain, muscle tension, and fatigue in patients with hematologic neoplasms. METHODS This is a randomized, crossover, single-blind clinical trial with two parallel groups and a pre- and post-intervention design. Individuals of both genders, aged over 18 years, diagnosed with hematologic cancer and presenting cancer-related pain intensity ≥ 4 on the visual numeric scale (0-10), will be recruited. Participants (n=50) will receive either one electromassage session applied to the cervico-thoraco-lumbar region (combined with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), for 20 minutes or will maintain their usual care routine (Control), without additional intervention, separated by a 7- to 21 -day washout period. Primary outcome: pain. Secondary outcomes: fatigue; nausea, vomiting, and queasiness; muscle tension; stress and anxiety; analgesic and opioid consumption; satisfaction with the intervention; and the occurrence of adverse events. RESULTS The results may contribute to understanding the potential of electromassage as a non-pharmacological intervention in pain management in hematological-oncological patients. CONCLUSION This protocol may contribute to expanding the evidence on electromassage as a non-pharmacological approach for pain management in hemato-oncological patients.