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Timing of Rehabilitation Following Cervical Spinal Surgery in Degenerative Myelopathy
Sponsor: University of Alberta
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether starting rehabilitation earlier after surgery can improve recovery and is feasible and acceptable for adults with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) undergoing cervical spine surgery. The main question it aims to answer is: Does starting rehabilitation earlier improve walking, balance, physical activity, quality of life, and nervous system function after surgery? Researchers will compare participants who begin rehabilitation two weeks after surgery with participants who begin rehabilitation six weeks after surgery to see if earlier rehabilitation leads to better recovery outcomes and participation. Participants will: Be randomly assigned to begin rehabilitation either two weeks or six weeks after surgery. Attend physical therapy sessions twice per week for eight weeks focused on strength, balance, and walking. Complete assessments of walking ability, balance, physical activity, quality of life, and nervous system function over several months after surgery. Provide feedback about their experience with the rehabilitation program, including satisfaction and any side effects or challenges related to participation.
Official title: Feasibility of Early Post-operative Rehabilitation Following Cervical Spinal Surgery in Degenerative Myelopathy
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
20
Start Date
2026-07-01
Completion Date
2027-12-31
Last Updated
2026-08-07
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Physical Therapy
Active, task-specific physical therapy to enhance balance, walking, and strength
Locations (1)
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada