Dance Movement Therapy for Radio-oncological Patients

The study is designed as investigator-initiated, prospective, non-randomized feasibility trial and includes radio-oncological patients (ECOG 0-2) who recently completed RT. The primary endpoint is to decide upon the feasibility, as well as identification of specific immunological changes in peripheral blood that contribute to the success of DMT (longitudinal analysis). The benefit for patients is seen in a resource activation after RT and improvement of well-being. Secondary endpoints include functional capacity, measured by maximum grip strength, body composition, assessed through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), assessment of QoL, pain and reduction of fatigue using validated and standardized questionnaires for patient reported outcomes with comparable results. In addition, immunophenotyping is performed. Further laboratory analyses include inflammatory markers, hormone levels, and nutritional biomarkers. These data are analyzed to evaluate correlation of immunological changes with clinical outcomes. Participants complete five weekly DMT sessions (90 minutes each). Each session integrates structured movement exercises, music, and psychotherapeutic elements, that can be tailored depending on each individual patient. The therapy is carried out by a certified therapeutic dance instructor with expertise in radio-oncology.