Effects of intermittent hand–foot hypothermia therapy on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. This study aimed to assess the effects of three different intermittent hypothermia temperatures applied to the hands and feet on CIPN symptoms in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

In total, 108 patients were randomly divided into three experimental groups (n = 36). Patients wore cold gloves and foot covers (groups 1–3, three 10 °C intervals from 0 to − 30 °C) for 15 min before and after each infusion. CIPN symptoms and their interference with activities of daily living (ADL) were assessed before the intervention and after the third and sixth cycles. Hypothermia tolerability and safety were also evaluated.

Baseline characteristics were similar across groups. After three intervention cycles, the scores were lower in group 3 than in group 1 for finger/hand numbness, toe/foot numbness, finger/hand/toe/foot discomfort, muscle/joint pain, and arm/leg weakness. After six intervention cycles, group 3 showed lower scores than group 1 for finger/hand tingling, toe/foot tingling, and difficulty maintaining balance. After six cycles of intervention, the influence of CIPN on ADL in all dimensions (except getting along with others) and the total score was lower in group 3 than in group 1. Additionally, CIPN symptoms and effects on activities of daily living were significant across time, groups, and interactions.

Intermittent hand–foot therapy (− 20 to − 30 °C) was the most effective for improving symptoms and ability to perform day-to-day activities. All temperatures tested were well-tolerated and safe.