PSC to prevent chemotherapy-induced nerve damage

We are proud to announce that our groundbreaking study is published in the renowned journal Cancer & Metabolism!

This article is the result of many years of efforts to resolve the ongoing debate and gain new insights into the effects of pressure-adjusted static compression (PSC) in patients undergoing chemotherapy — particularly those who develop chemotherapy-related peripheral neuropathy (CIPN).

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What was investigated? We investigated how PSC affects microvascular perfusion (blood flow to the smallest vessels) and aerobic metabolism in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. This focus is critical because CIPN is a common, potentially debilitating side effect where nerve damage can impair quality of life and may even force a life-saving interruption in treatment.

Key findings:

The PSC, applied using standardized pressure and palm pads, resulted in significantly increased microvascular perfusion in cancer patients, even those who already had CIPN.

Interestingly, this improved blood flow was accompanied by a reduction in aerobic metabolism in the affected tissues, which indicates a protective change in the tissue environment under compression.

These findings challenge previous hypotheses that compression could reduce local blood flow and thus worsen neuropathy. Instead, PSC appears to support vascular health and tissue oxygenation.

What does this mean for cancer patients?

For patients who suffer from or are at risk of CIPN, PSC represents a promising non-pharmacological approach that protects the nerves and potentially improves everyday functions. The well-tolerated and easy-to-perform intervention supports microcirculation without increasing metabolic stress on already damaged tissue.

Why is that important?

There are currently no generally effective prevention or treatment options for neuropathy caused by chemotherapy. With increasing evidence from clinical trials and this groundbreaking study, pressure-adjusted static compression is becoming a viable, evidence-based strategy to prevent or alleviate nerve damage — and to help cancer patients sustain life-saving therapies longer and with fewer symptoms.

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For oncologists, rehabilitation specialists, and patient advocates: Integrate PSC into supportive treatment pathways early on and monitor ongoing research, as these findings could soon lead to changes in guidelines and standard practices for treating chemotherapy side effects.

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