In 2019, the new integrated regional cancer center in Lévis, Canada, opened. Christine Claveau, occupational therapist, started a pilot program for sensory re-education following chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Inspired by the somatosensory pain rehabilitation (SPR) method developed by Spicher (2003) for nerve injuries, this is an innovative program in oncology for patients with neuropathy-related pain or discomfort in their hands or feet. The program consist of a self-care program, sensory re-education component and a physical exercise component. It aims to reduce the symptoms of neuropathy and improve functional capacity and quality of life. Following promising results, the arrival of another occupational therapist and further training by Sebastien Dufresne, pht, Ph.D, the program evolved further more. The results are promising in patients enrolled in the program, who actively commit to the program and who are diligent in adhering to the recommendations. Eventually, the goal is to do a scientific research with tests groups to demonstrate further and validate the benefits of a program of this nature for CIPN patients.

Christine Claveau is a semi-retired occupational therapist. She worked for 36 years at the Integrated Health and Social Services Center of Chaudières-Appalaches, in Lévis, Québec, Canada. From 1986 to 2019, she worked in long-term care and at the local community service center. In 2019, she joined the new cancer center and developed the occupational therapy program, which included the CPIN program. She retired in 2022 and came back part time to the local community service center