Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 50 and up

Assessing Proprioceptive Deficits in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy

Official title: Early Detection of Proprioceptive Dysfunction in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy by Proprioceptive Functional Analysis in Activities of Daily Living

Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT05183971 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is trying to see if a new test can help find balance problems in people over 45 with degenerative cervical myelopathy, to catch issues early and prevent serious disabilities.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment100 (estimated)
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong)
StatusRecruiting
StartedSeptember 1, 2022
Main results expectedSeptember 30, 2040
Study endsSeptember 30, 2046
Registry record updatedJune 4, 2026
Trial IDNCT05183971 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are Chinese individuals aged 50 or older with radiological evidence of degenerative cervical myelopathy.

Probably not a fit

Patients who may not benefit from this study include those under 50, non-Chinese individuals, or those with other neurological disorders affecting balance.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study focuses on identifying proprioceptive deficits in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) through a non-invasive assessment protocol. It aims to develop and validate Physical Performance Tests that can detect subtle proprioceptive issues, particularly in individuals over 45 years old. By utilizing the Proprioceptive Functional Analysis System (PFAS), the study will evaluate the impact of proprioceptive dysfunction on physical performance and daily activities. The goal is to enhance early detection and potentially prevent severe disabilities associated with DCM.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention for patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in assessing proprioceptive deficits in other conditions, suggesting potential for success.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Chinese
* Aged 50 or above
* With radiological evidence of degenerative cervical myelopathy, both symptomatic and asymptomatic
* Nurick grade less than 3

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non-Chinese ethnicity
* Aged under 50
* without any radiological proof of cervical myelopathy
* Active problems of tuberculosis spine, lumbar spinal diseases, and other problems causing pain or deformities over the limbs that may affect their balance and movement
* Presents with extra-pyramidal or other disorders involving the cerebellum or frontal lobe of the cerebrum leading to poor balance and gait disturbance
* Previous spinal operation with residual disturbance in balance or gait
* Non-communicable patients with insufficient cognitive ability to express their symptoms clearly
* Non-walker
* Blind or deaf

Where it's running

  • The Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital at Sandy Bay
    Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Karlen Ka Pui Law, M. Phil — The University of Hong Kong
  • Study coordinator: Karlen Ka Pui Law, M. Phil
  • Email: karlenhk@connect.com.hk
  • Phone: 852-29740531

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.