Effects of Neck Proprioception Impairment on Balance in Cervical Spondylosis Patients

The Influence of Cervical Proprioception Deficits on Postural Stability in Patients With Cervical Spondylosis

This observational cross-sectional study aims to investigate the impact of cervical proprioception deficits on postural stability in patients with cervical spondylosis. Using pedobarographic analysis, the study will assess static balance parameters in affected individuals. The main question it aims to answer is: Does Cervical proprioception deficits affect postural stability in patients with cervical spondylosis measured by pedobarographic parameters?

This cross-sectional observational study intends to investigate the association between cervical proprioception and postural stability in people with cervical spondylosis. Cervical proprioception promotes posture regulation by providing sensory feedback to the central nervous system. Alterations in cervical joint position sensation caused by degenerative alterations can have a negative impact on balance.

Eighty participants with clinically diagnosed cervical spondylosis will be recruited. Each participant will undergo a single evaluation session that includes cervical joint position error testing and postural stability assessment using pedobarographic analysis. Data will be collected on center of pressure sway, weight distribution, and balance parameters under various conditions.

so this study findings can help physical therapists, rehabilitation experts, and clinicians design protocols to improve proprioceptive input and postural control in people with cervical spondylosis. Furthermore, early diagnosis of proprioceptive deficits by pedobarography may enable preventive actions and lower the incidence of falls and related morbidity in this population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Eighty-two patients with cervical spondylosis, the patient will be diagnosed and referred by physician.
• Mild to moderate cervical disability according to neck disability index( MacDermid et al., 2009).
• Age ranges from 25 to 45 years.
• Body mass index from 18.5 - 24.9.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The patients will be excluded if they have one of the following:
• visual or vestibular sensory disorders or cerebellar disease.
• Cervical myelopathy.
• Patients with previous cervical surgery.
• inflammatory diseases involving cervical spine such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
• History of cervical trauma including whiplash associated disorders (WAD).
• History of cervical tumors.
• History of ankle instability.
• No previous foot and ankle surgery.