Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Hormone Therapy-Induced Hand Arthralgia in Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review

BackgroundAromatase inhibitor-induced arthralgia (AIA) is a frequent adverse effect of endocrine therapy in breast cancer survivors, often leading to treatment modification or discontinuation. Non-pharmacological interventions have been proposed to manage AIA, but evidence remains fragmented.ObjectiveTo synthesize recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for AIA.MethodsA systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified RCTs published between 2010 and 2025 assessing non-pharmacological strategies for AIA. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and quality appraisal using standardized criteria.ResultsEight RCTs met inclusion criteria, encompassing interventions such as acupuncture, structured exercise (aerobic, resistance, and Pilates), progressive relaxation, and neuromuscular taping. Acupuncture produced clinically meaningful reductions in pain intensity (mean differences 0.9-1.1 points on the Brief Pain Inventory), while exercise programs yielded moderate improvements in pain, function, and quality of life. Relaxation and taping interventions demonstrated smaller or less consistent effects. No eligible trials evaluated occupational therapy-based interventions.ConclusionsAcupuncture and structured exercise show the strongest evidence of benefit for managing AIA, though overall methodological quality remains moderate. Further well-designed trals with standardized outcomes and longer follow-up are needed to guide clinical implementation and to explore underrepresented approaches such as occupational therapy.