๐Ÿ›๏ธ Verified NIH Record โ€ข Updated 2026-08-04

Timing of Rehabilitation Following Cervical Spinal Surgery in Degenerative Myelopathy (NCT07636135)

Feasibility of Early Post-operative Rehabilitation Following Cervical Spinal Surgery in Degenerative Myelopathy

๐ŸŸข Recruiting Observational / Diagnostic ๐Ÿง  Behavioral & Psychological Program Sponsor: University of Alberta

๐Ÿฉบ Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)

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.

Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.

Location: University of Alberta โ€” Edmonton, Alberta

Age range: 18 Years

๐Ÿงช Interventions in This Study

  • Physical Therapy (BEHAVIORAL)

๐Ÿ“‹ "Do I Qualify?" โ€” 1-Minute Self Screener

Instant Checklist

Full eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria โ†—

๐Ÿ“ All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)

  • University of Alberta โ€” Edmonton, Alberta

๐Ÿ“ž Contact the Study Coordinator

Phone: (780) 492-4858

Email: clhurd@ualberta.ca

Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights

  • 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
  • Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA ยง 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
  • Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.

More studies in Cervical Myelopathy

๐Ÿ’ก How to Participate

  1. Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
  2. Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
  3. Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
  4. Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ View Official NIH Record โ†—