Abstract
BACKGROUND: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a significant concern among cancer patients undergoing treatment with neurotoxic drugs, affecting their quality of life. This study evaluates the efficacy of Epsom salt foot baths in preventing or delaying CIPN onset in asymptomatic cases and alleviating symptoms in symptomatic cases. METHODS: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 104 cancer patients, divided equally into asymptomatic and symptomatic groups. Each group was further subdivided into experimental and control arms. Baseline data for CIPN severity and quality of life were collected, followed by periodic assessments using the NCI-CTCAE CIPN grading system and quality-of-life tools. The experimental group received Epsom salt foot baths alongside standardized hospital care. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significant improvement in CIPN grades, with reduced sensory and motor symptom severity compared to the control group. In asymptomatic cases, CIPN onset was delayed, with a reduction in deterioration rates (42.31% vs. 96.15%, P < 0.05). Among symptomatic patients, symptom relief was more pronounced in the experimental arm, with a 54.35% superiority in grade improvement. Quality-of-life scores were consistently better in experimental groups for both asymptomatic and symptomatic cohorts. CONCLUSION: Epsom salt foot baths effectively delay CIPN onset and alleviate symptoms, enhancing the quality of life in cancer patients.