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NCT Number: NCT07282522

Sensory and Functional Impairments in Cervical Disc Herniation

The aim of the study was to evaluate the levels of somatosensory perception, pain threshold and kinesiophobia in individuals with SDH, to examine their relationship with upper extremity functional skills and to compare them with healthy individuals.

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Key information

Conditions

Cervical Disc Herniation

Age range

18 year–65 year

Sex eligibility

Female

Study type

Observational

Primary location

Dilan Demirtas Karaoba

Iğdır, Iğdir, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location status: Recruiting

About this study

Cervical disc herniation (SDH) occurs when nerve roots and/or spinal cord are compressed due to degeneration or displacement of the cervical intervertebral disc and can present with pain, sensory loss, muscle weakness, and functional limitations. Because the C5-T1 nerve roots provide motor and sensory innervation from the shoulder to the hand, SDH can cause not only pain but also impairments in somatosensory perception, tactile sensations, and proprioceptive awareness. Nerve root compression disrupts the integrity of sensory functions such as touch, vibration, and two-point discrimination, negatively impacting upper extremity abilities. Furthermore, pain and central sensitization processes lower the pain threshold, further limiting motor performance and activities of daily living. Therefore, the combined evaluation of somatosensory perception, pain, and functional abilities in individuals with SDH is crucial for a holistic understanding of the clinical picture.

Who can participate

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

for volunteers in the study: Neck pain lasting at least 3 months, Being between the ages of 18-65 with a diagnosis of cervical disc herniation, Being able to cooperate with the applied parameters, Having good cognitive function, Being literate, Agreeing to participate in the study.

For the control group, having no complaints of neck pain and not having any neck-related diagnosis.

Exclusion criteria

for volunteers in the study: Neck pain intensity during activity according to the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) below 3, Individuals who have undergone any surgery related to neck problems, Individuals who have undergone surgery related to upper extremity problems, Individuals with cervical radiculopathy, Having a systemic malignant disease anywhere in the body, Having any disease related to connective tissue or inflammatory rheumatic diseases, Having a psychiatric diagnosis and receiving treatment, Being illiterate, Not having sufficient cognitive function, Having received any neck-related physical therapy in the last 6 months for the CBA group.

Treatment and study plan

Somatosensory Perception Tests

Other

Tactile Localization Test The tactile localization test assesses touch perception. Finger Recognition Test The participant is asked to point to their finger, which has been touched with a pen, while their eyes are closed.

Double-Touch Stimulus Perception Test This test is based on the identification of two separate stimuli presented simultaneously.

The Visual Analog Scale

Other

The Visual Analog Scale evaluates the intensity of pain felt by patients in different activities and time periods (rest, activity and night) in centimeters (cm).

Pain Threshold and Tolerance Assessment

Other

Participants' pain threshold and tolerance to pressure are assessed using a digital algometer (JTech Medical Industries, ZEVEX Company).

Upper extremity functionality

Other

Upper extremity functionality will be assessed using the DASH and Purdue Pegboard Manual Dexterity Test.

Primary outcomes

  1. Upper extremity functionality

    Time frame: 24-48 hours

    Upper extremity functionality will be assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and Purdue Pegboard Manual Dexterity Test.The total score ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a higher level of upper extremity disability.

  2. Pain Threshold and Tolerance Assessment

    Time frame: 24-48 hours

    Participants' pain threshold and tolerance to pressure are assessed using a digital algometer (JTech Medical Industries, ZEVEX Company).

  3. Pain Assessment evaluates

    Time frame: 24-48 hours

    Pain Assessment evaluates the intensity of pain felt by patients in centimeters (cm) during different activities and time periods (rest, activity and night).

  4. Somatosensory Perception Tests

    Time frame: 24-48 hours

Interested in participating?

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Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Inonu University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Investigation of Somatosensory Perception, Pain, Kinesiophobia, and Upper Extremity Functional Skills in Cervical Disc Herniation: A Case-Control Study

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2026
First posted
Dec 15, 2025
Registry last updated
Dec 22, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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