This study will examine how cervical radiculopathy (a pinched nerve in the neck) affects function in both arms, not just the symptomatic side. The investigators will evaluate 42 patients with different cervical nerve root involvement (C4-5, C5-6, or C6-7) and compare them to 16 control subjects with non-specific neck pain. The assessments will measure muscle strength, sensory function, hand performance, pain levels, and psychological factors. These evaluations may contribute to the development of rehabilitation programs for cervical radiculopathy.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
58
This is an observational study examining bilateral sensorimotor function in patients with cervical radiculopathy. No interventional procedures were applied. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments including pain evaluation (VAS), neck disability (NDI), upper extremity functionality (DASH), muscle strength measurements, sensory function testing, hand performance evaluation, kinesiophobia (TAMPA), and emotional status assessment (Beck Inventory). The study compared findings between different cervical radiculopathy groups and a control group with non-specific neck pain.
İstanbul Beykent University
Istanbul, None Selected, Turkey (Türkiye)
Muscle Strength
Upper extremity muscle strength will be measured using a calibrated digital dynamometer. Measurements will be performed for shoulder flexors, extensors, and abductors, elbow flexors and extensors, wrist flexors and extensors, and forearm supination and pronation. Three consecutive measurements will be taken during maximal isometric contraction for each muscle group while the patient is seated in a standardized position, and the highest value will be recorded in Newtons (N). A 30-second rest period will be provided between measurements. Testing will be conducted bilaterally, with the unaffected side tested first.
Time frame: Single assessment at study enrollment
Light Touch Sensation
Light touch sensation will be assessed bilaterally using the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test kit (North Coast Medical Inc., Gilroy, CA, USA). Testing will follow standardized protocols, starting with the 2.83 filament applied to three specific locations on each hand: thumb, index finger, and little finger. Each monofilament will be applied at a 90-degree angle with sufficient pressure to bend it for 1-1.5 seconds, and repeated three times at each location. Participants will respond "yes" when they feel the stimulus. A threshold will be considered achieved when the patient correctly identifies at least seven out of ten applications. Results will be classified as normal (1.65-2.83), diminished light touch (3.22-3.61), diminished protective sensation (3.84-4.31), loss of protective sensation (4.56-6.65), and unmeasurable sensation (above 6.65). Comparison between affected and unaffected sides will be documented.
Time frame: Single assessment at study enrollment
Vibration Sense
Vibration sense will be evaluated using a 128 Hz tuning fork applied to the radial and ulnar styloid processes. Participants will be seated with forearms supported and wrists in neutral position. The tuning fork will be struck and applied to each styloid process, with participants indicating when vibration starts and stops. Three measurements will be taken at each site with 30-second intervals between tests. The duration of perceived vibration will be recorded and averaged. Results will be classified as normal, diminished, or absent based on age-normalized values. Comparison between affected and unaffected sides will be documented.
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Time frame: Single assessment at study enrollment
Upper Extremity Function
Upper extremity functional level will be assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, a standardized 30-item self-report measure validated for upper extremity symptoms and activity limitations. Each item is scored from 1 (no disability) to 5 (most severe disability), with total scores converted to a 0-100 scale. Higher scores indicate greater disability. The questionnaire will be completed by participants at the study enrollment visit.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.
Time frame: Single assessment at study enrollment