Effects of Myofascial Massage and Patient-therapist Communication Levels on Shoulder Muscle Properties in Breast Cancer Survivors With Myofascial Pain

The objective of the proposed study is to assess how myofascial massage alters stiffness and microvascular perfusion of shoulder muscles and how these changes are influenced by patient-therapist interactions. The primary hypothesis is that stiffness of shoulder muscles will be decreased, and microvascular perfusion will be increased after a 30-minute myofascial massage, and that the addition of patient-therapist communication levels will result in greater changes with certain levels.

Inclusion Criteria: * Previous unilateral breast cancer diagnosis * Treatment for primary breast cancer was completed 3 months to 2 years prior to enrollment (defined as completion of all treatments except oral maintenance therapies) * Myofascial pain in upper quadrant of the chest * Ability to understand and willingness to sign a written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Chronic neuromuscular or orthopedic injury currently affecting upper extremity function that is unrelated to their cancer diagnosis * Currently undergoing physical therapy, occupational therapy or other treatment for side effects related to their cancer diagnosis or other injury to the upper extremity * History of fibromyalgia * Broken or bruised skin in the chest/shoulder area * Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer * Currently receiving treatment for other forms of cancer