Evaluation of Cervical Position and Movement Sense Using a Novel Computer Vision-Based Software

Evaluation of Cervical Position and Movement Sense Using Computer Vision Technology in Healthy Individuals

This observational study evaluates cervical proprioception using a computer vision-based system developed with OpenCV and MediaPipe. Healthy adults will perform a series of head movements while their nose tip is tracked by a camera. The primary objective is to assess the accuracy of neck position and movement perception. Data will be analyzed to determine the reliability of the tracking system. The study is non-invasive, involves no interventions, and poses minimal risk to participants. Findings may support the development of accessible diagnostic tools for clinical and research applications.

This study aims to assess the test-retest reliability of computer-based cervical proprioception evaluations in healthy adults using OpenCV and MediaPipe for motion tracking. Participants will be seated in a controlled environment with a computer screen at eye level. The following four evaluations will be conducted:

Cervical Joint Position Sense (Head Relocation Error): Participants attempt to reposition their head to a perceived neutral position after flexion, extension, and rotation movements. The software records the deviation in pixels between actual and perceived head positions. Six trials per movement direction will be performed, with retesting after one hour.

Cervical Movement Sense - Patterned Tracking: Participants trace on-screen shapes (e.g., F8, ZZ) with their nose tip to evaluate movement accuracy. The total deviation from the ideal path in pixels will be measured. One practice trial and recorded attempts will be conducted, with retesting after one hour.

Cervical Movement Sense - Target Tracking: Participants follow a moving on-screen target with their nose tip. Tracking accuracy and time spent inside the target will be recorded. Three trials will be performed, with retesting after one week.

Sensorimotor Control Assessment: Participants align their head with randomly appearing visual targets for one minute. Performance will be evaluated based on the number of correct alignments and response accuracy. Three trials will be conducted, with retesting after one hour.

All data will be anonymized and analyzed for reliability using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Standard Error of Measurement (SEM), and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC). This non-invasive, computer-based methodology aims to provide a reliable and low-cost approach to assessing cervical joint position sense, movement perception, and sensorimotor control, contributing to future clinical and research applications.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy individuals over 18 years of age
• No neck pain

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neck or spinal symptoms
• History of cervical/spinal trauma or surgery
• Chronic conditions affecting mobility
• Visual or vestibular impairments