Home-Based Exercise and Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy (CIN)

Background: Studies highlight the potential benefits of home-based exercise for cancer survivors with chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN); however, its effectiveness in alleviating CIN-related sensorimotor impairments and symptoms has been inconsistent and generally modest. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) has emerged as a promising adjunct for CIN rehabilitation. Preliminary studies suggest that nVNS can enhance the therapeutic effects of exercise-based rehabilitation, leading to greater improvements in sensorimotor impairments. A recent trial found that nVNS alleviated CIN-related pain and improved mental well-being, but did not significantly enhance physical well-being or clinician-rated CIN severity. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of combining home-based exercise with non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) to alleviate chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIN) and improve quality of life in cancer survivors. Design and Subjects: This phase II randomized controlled trial will enroll 60 cancer survivors with established CIN following…

• Patient-Reported Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy as Assessed by the Chinese Version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (EORTC QLQ-CIPN20)

1. Primary completion expected

   Dec 20, 2028

2. Expected to start

   Dec 21, 2026

3. Registered

   Oct 16, 2026