Actively Recruiting
Early Detection of Proprioceptive Dysfunction in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Using Physical Performance Tests and Proprioceptive Functional Analysis
Led by The University of Hong Kong · Updated on 2026-06-04
100
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
313 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating proprioceptive deficits in degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), a progressive neurological condition that affects body balance, motor control, and coordination. DCM commonly causes hand clumsiness, gait disturbance, and incoordination due to proprioceptive dysfunction. This study aims to develop a non-invasive assessment protocol using simple Physical Performance Tests to detect early subtle proprioceptive deficits, especially in people aged 50 and older, to help prevent severe disabilities associated with DCM. The study evaluates the Proprioceptive Functional Analysis System (PFAS) alongside Physical Performance Tests to assess proprioceptive function in daily activities. Participants include Chinese individuals aged 50 or above, both with radiological evidence of DCM and healthy controls without myelopathic signs. The assessments focus on core and peripheral joint proprioception during activities of daily living. The goal is to validate simple physical tests as reliable diagnostic tools comparable to advanced technology. Participants will undergo testing with PFAS and physical performance assessments to monitor proprioceptive deficits over time. The main outcome measured is the Modified Japanese Orthopaedics Association Scoring System for Cervical Myelopathy (mJOA) over 15 years, along with secondary tests assessing speed and time-limited proprioceptive function. The study includes long-term monitoring of proprioceptive function to help identify early signs of DCM and support early diagnosis and intervention.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Proprioceptive Deficits in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Chinese ethnicity
- Aged 50 years or older
- Radiological evidence of degenerative cervical myelopathy, symptomatic or asymptomatic
- Nurick grade less than 3
You will not qualify if you...
- Non-Chinese ethnicity
- Aged under 50 years
- No radiological proof of cervical myelopathy
- Active tuberculosis of the spine, lumbar spinal diseases, or limb conditions causing pain or deformities affecting balance or movement
- Disorders involving the cerebellum or frontal lobe causing poor balance or gait disturbance
- Previous spinal surgery with remaining balance or gait issues
- Insufficient cognitive ability to clearly express symptoms
- Unable to walk
- Blind or deaf
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Initial assessment at enrollment with monitoring up to 15 years
Participants undergo proprioceptive testing and physical performance tests using the Proprioceptive Functional Analysis System to assess proprioceptive deficits.
Visits at baseline and periodic assessments over 15 years
Duration - Up to 15 years
Participants are monitored for changes in proprioceptive function and neurological status over time.
Periodic visits for follow-up assessments during the study period
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
The Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital at Sandy Bay
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 000
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
K
Karlen Ka Pui Law, M. Phil
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
2
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