Clinical Research Directory

Prospective Comparative Analysis of ACDF vs Fusion Interbody Cages With nanoLOCK Osseointegrative Technology

Study team will plan a prospective, randomized control trial using our institution's spine clinical outcomes registry. Eligible patients undergoing ACDF (see inclusion criteria listed below) will be randomized to an Intervention or Control Group, which will differ according to the interbody cage used during the procedure. In the Intervention Group (100 patients), Medtronic Titan Endoskeleton TCS zero-profile, stand-alone interbody cages with nanoLOCK osseointegrative technology will be implanted at each treated level. In the Control Group (100 patients), patients will receive an alternative interbody cage system that does not employ nanoLOCK ossteointegrative technology. Interbody cages used in the Control Group (along with the decision to apply anterior plate fixation) will be determined according to surgeon preference. There will be no blinding to the type of implant used. Standard demographic and procedural variables will be collected for all patients (including history of diabetes, tobacco, use, prior use of oral corticosteroids, number of levels fused, and presence of bicortical screw placement). Clinical and radiographic outcomes in the Intervention and Control Groups will be directly compared.

Ultrasound Guided Transcutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency for Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy (CR) is a painful condition caused by irritation of the cervical nerve roots, often leading to neck, shoulder, and arm pain, sometimes with numbness or weakness. These symptoms can reduce quality of life and place a burden on healthcare systems. Current treatments, such as physical therapy, cervical traction, and medication, are often not fully effective. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) has shown benefits for nerve-related pain, but because it requires an invasive procedure, its use is limited. Transcutaneous pulsed radiofrequency (TCPRF) is a non-invasive version of PRF. It has shown promising results in animal studies and in clinical research for knee and shoulder conditions, but has not been tested for CR. Recent improvements in ultrasound allow more precise targeting of cervical nerve roots, making ultrasound-guided TCPRF a potentially safe and accessible treatment option. This pilot study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided TCPRF in patients with CR compared to a sham treatment. A total of 32 participants with CR lasting more than six weeks will be randomly assigned to either TCPRF or sham treatment. Both groups will receive 12 treatment sessions over four weeks, combined with a standard rehabilitation program. The main outcome is pain intensity measured by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Secondary outcomes include neck-related disability, medication use, and any side effects.

Effect of Core Stabilization Exercises on Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effect of core stabilization exercise on functional outcome and craniovertebral angle which is the angle of forward head , in adults with cervical radiculopathy. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Is there a significant effect of core stabilization exercises (CSEs) on craniovertebral angle (CVA) in patients with cervical radiculopathy? * Is there a significant effect of core stabilization exercises (CSEs) on functional outcome in patients with cervical radiculopathy? Researchers will compare effect of adding core stabilization exercises to conventional physical therapy program (TENS, hot pack, US, manual therapy and strengthening exercises) Vs conventional physical therapy program alone to see if there is a beneficial effect of adding core stabilization exercises to physical therapy program Participants in study group will perform core stabilization exercises in addition to conventional PT program while participants in control group will receive conventional PT program

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Versus Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Pain and Functional Outcome in Cervical Radiculopathy

this study will be conducted to compare between transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation versus repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on pain and functional outcome in cervical radiculopathy

Cervical Radiculopathy Imaging Using MRN With Electrodiagnostic Correlation

This project will study patients with cervical radiculopathy. We will evaluate the combined diagnostic and prognostic value of magnetic resonance neurography (MRN), electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies, and historical and physical clinical elements. Specifically, this project will explore whether these data individually or in combination correlate with response to procedural and non-procedural treatment.

Home-Based Exercise After Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection for Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a common cause of neck and arm pain resulting from compression or inflammation of a cervical nerve root. Cervical epidural steroid injection is frequently used to reduce pain and improve function in patients who do not respond to conservative treatment. However, long-term functional recovery may require additional rehabilitation strategies. This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate whether adding a standardized home-based exercise program after cervical interlaminar epidural steroid injection improves pain, disability, sleep quality, and quality of life in patients with chronic cervical radiculopathy. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either injection alone or injection followed by an eight-week home-based exercise program.

Assessment of Upper Extremity Proprioception in Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy

There is no study in the current literature that systematically investigates the extent of upper-extremity proprioceptive impairment in patients with radicular neuropathic symptoms secondary to cervical disc herniation, nor its association with clinical findings. Although existing reviews emphasize proprioceptive deficits in populations with neck pain or cervical spondylosis, no studies specifically address the subgroup of cervical disc-related radiculopathy. This gap in knowledge hinders the integration of proprioceptive assessments with upper-extremity functional outcome measures in diagnostic and rehabilitative processes, suggesting a need for more specific data to guide sensory-motor training approaches. The primary aim of the present study is to assess upper-extremity proprioception in patients with cervical radiculopathy by comparing them with a healthy control group. The secondary aim is to examine the relationship between upper-extremity proprioception and clinical outcomes, including parameters such as pain and functional status.

Ultrasound Guided Cervical Selective Nerve Root Block Versus Fluoroscopic Guided Cervical Transforaminal Epidural Block

This study retrospectively analyzed medical records and imaging records (ultrasound images, fluoroscopy-guided images) of US-CSNRB and FL-CTFEB procedures performed at the Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital Pain Clinic outpatient department from May 1, 2019, to April 30, 2024. It compared the therapeutic effects (pain reduction), procedure-related indicators (comparison of contrast agent spread), safety (incidence of complications), and changes in analgesic usage. The primary outcome of this study is the difference in pain chage (Visual Analogue Scale, VAS) between patients undergoing US-CSNRB and FL-CTFEB. The secondary outcomes are comparison of contrast agent spread and comparison of procedure-related complication rates.

Mulligan Mobilization & Stretching Effects of Cervical

1. To evaluate the effectiveness of mulligan mobilization and stretching exercises in reducing pain in individuals with cervical radiculopathy. 2. To evaluate the effectiveness of mulligan mobilization and stretching exercises in reducing disability in individuals with cervical radiculopathy. 3. To evaluate the effectiveness of mulligan mobilization and stretching exercises at improving ranges in individuals with cervical radiculopathy.

Nerve Gliding Exercises in Cervical Radiculopathy

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of nerve gliding exercises on pain, cervical range of motion, joint position sense, grip strength, functional status and quality of life in individuals with cervical radiculopathy.

Comparison of Artificial Disc Implants in Cervical Disc Arthroplasty

This study will comprehensively evaluate the outcomes and endpoints of these two different FDA-approved artificial disc implants used to treat cervical spondylotic myelopathy and/or radiculopathy today: Biomet Zimmer Mobi-C and Nuvasive Simplify. Both implants are structurally different with the Nuvasive Simplify implementing a three-piece design with two endplates and a semi-constrained mobile core while the Biomet Zimmer Mobi-C implements an unconstrained three piece design. Subjects will be age-matched and randomly assigned to either implant with informed consent. All subjects will undergo a variety of assessments that evaluate neck disability, quality of life, pain, physiological outcome (radiographic assessments), and neck range-of motion before and after their procedure. One baseline testing will be conducted along with three post-operation visits (three months, six months, and one year) in accordance to standard follow-up procedure. Thus, the duration of participation in the study will be approximately one and a half years.

Effect of Cervical Traction With Neural Mobilization on Nerve Root Functions in Cervical Radiculopathy Patients

This study will be conducted to examine 1. The efficacy of mechanical traction from decompression angles combined with neural mobilization on the H reflex of flexor carpi radialis. 2. The efficacy of mechanical traction from decompression angles combined with neural mobilization on ultrasonography changes. 3. The efficacy of mechanical traction from decompression angles with neural mobilization has a Numeric Pain Rating Scale. 4. The efficacy of mechanical traction from decompression angles combined with neural mobilization on Neck Disability Index.

Combination of Kinesio Tape and Proprioceptive Neck Exercises on Proprioception in Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy

This study is conducted to investigate: 1. The efficiency of combination of KT and proprioceptive exercises on neck proprioception in patients with CR. 2. The efficiency of combination of KT and proprioceptive exercises on neck pain, neck function and neuropathic pain in patients with CR.

Gait Asymmetry And Its Relationship With Neck Pain And Muscles Strength In Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy

This study will be conducted to: * Investigate the relationship between neck pain severity and bilateral gait symmetry in patients with cervical radiculopathy. * Investigate the relationship between deep neck flexors strength and gait symmetry in patients with cervical radiculopathy. * Investigate the relationship between upper limb muscles strength and bilateral gait symmetry in patients with cervical radiculopathy. * Determine factors predicting bilateral gait asymmetry in patients with cervical radiculopathy.

Correlation Between Cervical Deep Flexors Endurance and Proprioception Function in Cervical Radiculopathy

In cervical radiculopathy, reduced endurance of the deep cervical flexor muscles is associated with impaired cervical proprioception. This relationship reflects altered sensorimotor control due to muscle dysfunction and neural compromise, emphasizing the need for deep flexor endurance training in rehabilitation.

Investigation of the Effects of Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection on Upper Extremity Proprioception in Patients With Chronic Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is a common condition caused by irritation or compression of cervical nerve roots, often leading to unilateral neuropathic pain and functional impairment. Proprioceptive deficits in the upper extremity have been demonstrated in various cervical spine disorders; however, the effect of interlaminar epidural steroid injection (ILESI) on upper extremity proprioception in patients with chronic cervical radiculopathy has not been previously examined. This prospective interventional study aims to evaluate changes in upper extremity proprioception following unilateral ILESI in patients with cervical disc herniation-related chronic radiculopathy. A secondary aim is to investigate the relationship between proprioceptive changes and clinical outcomes such as pain, neuropathic pain, disability, grip strength, and quality of life.

Posterior Cervical Fixation Study

The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and performance of occipito-cervico-thoracic spine surgery using posterior fixation as measured by reported complications, radiographic outcomes, and patients reported outcomes (PROs).This study is being undertaken to identify possible residual risks and to clarify mid-to long-term clinical performance that may affect the benefit/risk ratio of posterior fixation systems.

NuVasive® ACP System Study

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and performance of anterior cervical spine surgery using the NuVasive anterior cervical plate (ACP) System as measured by reported complications, radiographic outcomes, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

Effect of TECAR on Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy is characterized by pain, sensory disturbances, and impaired neuromuscular control due to nerve root compression. Proprioception dysfunction is often an overlooked component of this condition and can affect balance, posture, and motor control. TECAR (Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive) therapy is a form of deep heat electrotherapy known to improve tissue perfusion and neuromuscular function. Although TECAR is widely used for pain relief and mobility, its role in improving proprioception remains under-investigated, especially in cervical conditions. This study aims to bridge this gap by assessing proprioceptive outcomes in patients with cervical radiculopathy receiving TECAR therapy.

Effectiveness and Safety of Korean Medicine Treatment for Cervical Disc Herniation

A prospective observational study investigating the effectiveness and safety of integrative Korean medicine treatment in cervical disc herniation patients with neck pain or cervical radiculopathy at 4 locations of Jaseng Hospital of Korean Medicine as assessed through of pain, functional disability, work loss and quality of life patient-reported outcomes

Contralateral Neural Tissue Mobilization for Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy (CR) is a common form of peripheral neuropathic pain characterized by neck and upper extremity symptoms in a dermatomal distribution. Neural tissue mobilization (NTM) is an intervention shown to provide benefit for neuropathic pain presentations; however, some patients are unable to tolerate direct treatment of the symptomatic limb due to allodynia, hyperalgesia, or fear of movement. Early evidence from lower-extremity research suggests that contralateral NTM may produce therapeutic effects similar to ipsilateral treatment, but this approach has not been investigated in individuals with upper-extremity symptoms. This exploratory case series aims to examine the immediate effects of contralateral NTM in adults presenting to outpatient physical therapy with CR. Participants will undergo pre- and post-treatment assessments of pain intensity, disability, fear-avoidance beliefs, pain distribution, and neurodynamic mechanosensitivity. Findings will provide preliminary evidence regarding whether contralateral NTM may serve as a viable treatment option when direct symptomatic limb treatment is not tolerated.

Effectiveness of AlloWrap® for the Reduction of Inflammation in ACDF Procedures

The primary objective of this study is to obtain evidence of the effectiveness of AlloWrap Amniotic Membrane in the reduction of soft tissue swelling in two-level ACDF procedures.

Relationship Between Craniovertebral Angle, Lumbar Proprioception, and Trunk Muscle Strength in Cervical Radiculopathy

The study aimed to * Investigate the relation of cranio-vertebral angle with lumbar proprioception in patients with cervical radiculopathy. * Investigate the relation of cranio-vertebral angle with trunk muscles strength in patients with cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is a condition that causes neck pain radiating to the arm due to nerve root compression. The study seeks to explore whether posture and trunk control are affected in these patients. Participants will be assessed for craniovertebral angle, lumbar proprioception, and trunk muscle strength using standardized physical therapy evaluation methods. The findings may help in understanding postural and neuromuscular changes associated with cervical radiculopathy and improve rehabilitation programs

Myo-Electrical and Nerve Root Function Response to Focused Extracorpeal Shock Wave in Cervical Radiculopathy

BACKGROUND: Upper limb nerve root dysfunction with increased active myofascial trigger point in upper trapezius is common problem in patients with cervical radiculopathy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Extracorpeal shock wave on the myo-electric and nerve function responses in patients with cervical radiculopathy.