Assessing hand dexterity in patients with cervical myelopathy

Establishing the Validity and Reliability of a Dexterity Assessment Tool in DCM and Healthy Populations

Observational Western University, Canada · NCT05910593

This study is testing a new tool to see if it can accurately measure hand function in people with cervical myelopathy to help track their condition better.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment102 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorWestern University, Canada Academic / other
Locations1 site (London, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05910593 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate a newly developed portable dexterity assessment tool designed to measure hand function in patients diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). The tool seeks to identify subtle changes in dexterity that may correlate with the severity of myelopathy, potentially allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment. By establishing the validity and reliability of this assessment tool, the study hopes to enhance the monitoring of disease progression and recovery. Participants will include both individuals diagnosed with DCM and healthy controls, aged 35 to 75, who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 35 to 75 who have been diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy and have no other neurological disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not speak and read English fluently will not benefit from this study due to the language requirements for participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early diagnosis and treatment of degenerative cervical myelopathy, ultimately preserving hand function in affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative in its focus on subtle changes in dexterity, similar studies have shown promise in using assessment tools to monitor neurological conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria for patient participants

* Has been diagnosed with DCM
* Are between the ages of 35 and 75 years
* Has no other neurological disorder Inclusion criteria for healthy participants
* Are between the ages of 35 and 75 years
* Has no neurological disorder

Exclusion criteria for all participants:

• Does not fluently speak and read English

Where this trial is running

London, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Myelopathy CervicalCervical SpondylosisSpinal Cord Compression
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.