The cervical spine is a complex structure that supports the weight of the head and protects the spinal cord and nerve roots. Cervical spinal stenosis (CSS), which develops as a result of degenerative processes, can cause narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of nerve structures, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness. This condition can negatively affect hand function, particularly grip strength and dexterity. However, studies in the literature examining the effect of CSS on grip strength and hand function are limited. Therefore, this study will be conducted to determine the effect of the severity of cervical spinal stenosis, identified in patients who underwent MRI following their presentation with cervical problems at the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic of Buca Seyfi Demirsoy Training and Research Hospital, İzmir Democracy University, on hand grip strength and functionality. Grip strength will be assessed using the Jamar hand dynamometer, and fine pinch strength will be evaluated using the Lafayette pinch meter. Additionally, hand functionality will be measured using the Nine-Hole Peg Test. The impact of neck pain on daily life will be assessed using the Neck Disability Index. The data obtained will be compared and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. This study is expected to fill a significant gap in the current literature by comprehensively elucidating the effects of cervical stenosis on hand function and grip performance, thereby contributing to the individualization of rehabilitation approaches.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
180
Hand Grip Strength
Hand grip strength will be assessed using a Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Measurements will be taken while seated, with the arm positioned as follows: shoulder adduction, elbow at 90° flexion, and forearm in a neutral position. The wrist will be positioned at 0-30° extension and 0-15° ulnar deviation. The volunteer will be asked to grip the dynamometer firmly and squeeze as hard as possible. The measurements will be repeated three times, and the average value will be recorded in kilograms.
Time frame: Day 1
Pinch Strength
A Lafayette brand hydraulic pinch meter will be used for this measurement. Measurements will be taken in three ways: two-point, lateral, and three-point grips. For the two-point grip measurement, the subject will be asked to squeeze the pinch meter using the tips of their thumb and index finger. For the lateral grip measurement, the volunteer will be asked to squeeze the pinch meter using the middle of the distal phalanx of the thumb and the lateral part of the middle phalanx of the index finger. For the three-point grip measurement, the subject will be instructed to squeeze the pinch meter using the distal phalanges of the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. Measurements will be taken in the same position as the grip strength test, in accordance with the standard; three measurements will be taken for each grip type, and the average will be recorded in pounds (lb).
Time frame: Day 1
The Nine-Hole Peg Test
The participants' manual dexterity will be assessed using the Nine-Hole Peg Test, which has been proven to be valid and reliable. The test consists of nine identical holes spaced at equal intervals and nine matching pegs. The timer starts the moment the person first touches a peg to place it. The person will be asked to take the pegs from the box, place them in the holes as quickly as possible, and then remove them and return them to the box. The test will be conducted while the person is seated. The activity time will be recorded in seconds.
Time frame: Day 1
Neck Disability Index
The Neck Disability Index is an adaptation of the Oswestry Disability Index for the cervical region and is a widely used 10-item questionnaire for assessing cervical dysfunction and neck pain. Each item is scored between 0 (no disability) and 5 (complete disability). The total score ranges from 0 to 50; a higher score indicates greater functional limitation. The questionnaire has established validity and reliability in Turkish.
Time frame: Day 1
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