Parkinson DiseaseNCT07639463
Upper Extremity Skills, Trunk Control, and Body Awareness in Parkinson's Disease
An observational study of Parkinson Disease, run by Baskent University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
Parkinson's disease is associated with impairments in upper extremity function, postural control, and sensory-motor processing that may negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 50 to 80 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Parkinson Disease
- How many people
- 118 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 15 Jun 2026to 10 Oct 2026
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 50 to 80 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Study population: The study population consists of patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease who follow up at the Neurology Department, and age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects recruited from the local community.
Who may be able to join
- Diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease
- Age between 50 and 80 years
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score ≥21
- Modified Hoehn and Yahr Stage 2-3
- Stable medication regimen with no medication or dosage changes within the previous month
- Ability to understand and follow instructions
- Voluntary agreement to participate
Who cannot join
- Presence of another chronic neurological disorder
- Orthopedic or rheumatologic conditions limiting upper extremity movement
- Previous upper extremity or trunk surgery
- Severe tremor or dyskinesia preventing participation in assessments
- Significant visual or communication impairments interfering with testing
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Investigation of Upper Extremity Skills, Trunk Control, and Body Awareness in Individuals With Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is associated with impairments in upper extremity function, postural control, and sensory-motor processing that may negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. While upper extremity dysfunction has been extensively investigated, the potential contributions of trunk control and body awareness have received less attention. This cross-sectional observational study aims to compare upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness between individuals with Parkinson's disease and healthy adults, and to examine the relationships among these variables within the Parkinson's disease group. The findings may improve understanding of factors associated with upper extremity performance and support the development of more comprehensive rehabilitation approaches for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Read the detailed description
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and the presence of both motor and non-motor symptoms. In addition to the cardinal motor features of tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, individuals with PD commonly experience impairments in upper extremity function that negatively affect daily activities and participation. Difficulties in hand strength, manual dexterity, reaction time, movement speed, and upper limb coordination may interfere with reaching, grasping, object manipulation, and fine motor tasks.
Upper extremity performance in PD is influenced by several factors beyond the primary motor symptoms. Trunk control provides proximal stability required for efficient upper limb movement and functional task performance. Deficits in postural control, trunk mobility, and postural alignment may therefore contribute to upper extremity limitations. In addition, body awareness, defined as the perception and interpretation of bodily sensations, movements, and physical changes, has received increasing attention in neurological rehabilitation. Altered sensory integration, impaired kinesthetic processing, and movement-related difficulties observed in PD may affect body awareness and subsequently influence motor performance.
Although upper extremity dysfunction has been widely investigated in Parkinson's disease, the combined examination of upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness remains limited. Furthermore, studies investigating body awareness in individuals with PD are scarce, and the relationship between body awareness and upper extremity performance has not been sufficiently explored.
The primary aim of this study is to investigate upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness in individuals with Parkinson's disease and compare these characteristics with those of healthy adults. The secondary aim is to examine the relationships among upper extremity performance, trunk control, and body awareness within the Parkinson's disease group.
This study is designed as a cross-sectional observational study and does not include any intervention. A total of 118 participants will be recruited, including 59 individuals diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease and 59 age- and sex-matched healthy adults. Participants with Parkinson's disease will be evaluated during their medication "on" period. All assessments will be completed in a single session.
Data collection will include demographic and clinical characteristics, cognitive screening, disease staging, assessment of hand grip and pinch strength, upper extremity reaction time and movement speed, manual dexterity, self-reported upper extremity function, trunk control, and body awareness. Comparisons will be performed between the Parkinson's disease and healthy control groups, and associations among upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness will be analyzed within the Parkinson's disease group.
The findings of this study are expected to provide a better understanding of the factors associated with upper extremity performance in Parkinson's disease and to clarify the potential contributions of trunk control and body awareness. Improved knowledge of these relationships may support the development of more comprehensive physiotherapy assessment and rehabilitation strategies for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
- Conditions
- Parkinson Disease
- Keywords
- Functionality, Body, Parkinson's Disease, Upper Extremity
- Medical subject headings
- Parkinson Disease
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Parkinson's Disease Group | Patient diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease by a neurologist who meet the inclusion criteria | |
| Healthy Control Group | Age matched healthy individuals with no neurological disorders |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Manual Dexterity Measured by Purdue Pegboard Test
The Purdue Pegboard Test is used to measure gross movements of the hands, fingers and arms, as well as fingertip dexterity. The assessment includes four subtests: preferred hand, non-preferred hand, both hands, and assembly. For the first three subtests, the score is the number of pins placed within a 30 second time limit (higher numbers indicate better dexterity). For the assembly subtest, the score is the number of parts assembled in 60 seconds (higher numbers indicate better dexterity).
Measured: Baseline
Hand Grip Strength Measured by Hand Dynamometer
Hand grip strength of both dominant and non-dominant hands is measured using a standart digital hand dynamometer. Participants perform maximum isometric contractions in a seated position. Measurement is recorded in kilograms (kg). The average value of three trials is used. Higher scores indicate greater hand grip strength.
Measured: Baseline
Pinch Strength Measured by Pinch Gauge
Pinch strength is evaluated using a standard mechanical or digital pinch gauge (pinchmeter) to assess lateral (key) pinch strength and palmar (tip-to-tip) pinch strength for both dominant and non-dominant hands. Participants perform maximum isometric contractions. Measurement is recorded in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs). Higher scores indicate greater pinch strength.
Measured: Baseline
Reaction Time Measured by Light Trainer System
Visual and auditory reaction times are assessed using an electronic light trainer system. The system measures the latency between the presentation of a light stimulus and the participant's physical response (hitting or pressing the light target)while tracking the total number of successfully touched targets. The time score is recorded in milliseconds (ms). Lower time scores and higher hit counts indicate faster reaction time and better overall performance.
Measured: Baseline
Reaction Time Measured by Ruler Drop Test
The ruler drop test is used to evaluate clinical reaction time based on free-fall distance. A standard metric ruler is suspended and dropped without warning, and the participant catches it as quickly as possible. The distance fallen is measured in centimeters (cm) using a standard formula. Lower distances indicate faster reaction time.
Measured: Baseline
Motor Speed and Coordination Measured by Finger Tapping Test
The Finger Tapping Test is used to assess motor speed, coordination, and bradykinesia in the upper extremities. Participants are asked to tap their index finger against their thumb as rapidly and fully as possible within a specified time frame (typically 60 seconds) or for a set number of repetitions. The score is recorded as the total number of correct taps achieved within the time limit. Higher numbers of taps indicate faster motor speed and better neurological function.
Measured: Baseline
Trunk Control Measured by Trunk Impairment Scale
The TIS evaluates motor impairment of the trunk through three subscales: static sitting balance, dynamic sitting balance, and coordination. Total scores range from 0 to 23. Higher scores indicate better trunk control and balance.
Measured: Baseline
Body Awareness Measured by Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ)
The BAQ is a self-report scale designed to assess non-clinically invert-focused body awareness, such as sensitivity to normal bodily processes and changes. It consists of 18 items scored on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = not at all true of me, 7 = very true of me). Total scores range from 18 to 126. Higher scores indicate a higher level of subjective body awareness.
Measured: Baseline
Upper Extremity Disability Measured by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire
The DASH questionnaire is a 30-item self-report questionnaire designed to measure physical function and symptoms in patients with musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb. Items are scored on a 5-point Likert scale. The responses are used to calculate a scale score ranging from 0 (no disability) to 100 (most severe disability). Lower scores indicate better upper extremity function and less disability.
Measured: Baseline
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted10 Jun 2026
- Study start15 Jun 2026
- Primary completion1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion10 Oct 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Parkinson DiseaseStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Case-control
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Enrolment
- 118 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Baskent University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Ozlem Yuruk, Baskent University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07639463
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- KA26/04
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 1 Jun 2026
- Last updated
- 30 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 30 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Investigation of Upper Extremity Skills, Trunk Control, and Body Awareness in Individuals With Parkinson's Disease
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07639463
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- KA26/04
- Conditions
- Parkinson Disease
- Keywords
- Functionality, Body, Parkinson's Disease, Upper Extremity
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Active, not recruiting
- Enrolment
- 118 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Baskent UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 15 Jun 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 10 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 10 Jun 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Parkinson's disease is associated with impairments in upper extremity function, postural control, and sensory-motor processing that may negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. While upper extremity dysfunction has been extensively investigated, the potential contributions of trunk control and body awareness have received less attention. This cross-sectional observational study aims to compare upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness between individuals with Parkinson's disease and healthy adults, and to examine the relationships among these variables within the Parkinson's disease group. The findings may improve understanding of factors associated with upper extremity performance and support the development of more comprehensive rehabilitation approaches for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Detailed description
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and the presence of both motor and non-motor symptoms. In addition to the cardinal motor features of tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, individuals with PD commonly experience impairments in upper extremity function that negatively affect daily activities and participation. Difficulties in hand strength, manual dexterity, reaction time, movement speed, and upper limb coordination may interfere with reaching, grasping, object manipulation, and fine motor tasks.
Upper extremity performance in PD is influenced by several factors beyond the primary motor symptoms. Trunk control provides proximal stability required for efficient upper limb movement and functional task performance. Deficits in postural control, trunk mobility, and postural alignment may therefore contribute to upper extremity limitations. In addition, body awareness, defined as the perception and interpretation of bodily sensations, movements, and physical changes, has received increasing attention in neurological rehabilitation. Altered sensory integration, impaired kinesthetic processing, and movement-related difficulties observed in PD may affect body awareness and subsequently influence motor performance.
Although upper extremity dysfunction has been widely investigated in Parkinson's disease, the combined examination of upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness remains limited. Furthermore, studies investigating body awareness in individuals with PD are scarce, and the relationship between body awareness and upper extremity performance has not been sufficiently explored.
The primary aim of this study is to investigate upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness in individuals with Parkinson's disease and compare these characteristics with those of healthy adults. The secondary aim is to examine the relationships among upper extremity performance, trunk control, and body awareness within the Parkinson's disease group.
This study is designed as a cross-sectional observational study and does not include any intervention. A total of 118 participants will be recruited, including 59 individuals diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease and 59 age- and sex-matched healthy adults. Participants with Parkinson's disease will be evaluated during their medication "on" period. All assessments will be completed in a single session.
Data collection will include demographic and clinical characteristics, cognitive screening, disease staging, assessment of hand grip and pinch strength, upper extremity reaction time and movement speed, manual dexterity, self-reported upper extremity function, trunk control, and body awareness. Comparisons will be performed between the Parkinson's disease and healthy control groups, and associations among upper extremity skills, trunk control, and body awareness will be analyzed within the Parkinson's disease group.
The findings of this study are expected to provide a better understanding of the factors associated with upper extremity performance in Parkinson's disease and to clarify the potential contributions of trunk control and body awareness. Improved knowledge of these relationships may support the development of more comprehensive physiotherapy assessment and rehabilitation strategies for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Study design
- Observational model
- Case-control
- Time perspective
- Cross-sectional
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Parkinson's Disease Group | – | –Patient diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease by a neurologist who meet the inclusion criteria |
| Healthy Control Group | – | –Age matched healthy individuals with no neurological disorders |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 50 to 80 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
- Study population
- The study population consists of patients diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson's disease who follow up at the Neurology Department, and age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects recruited from the local community.
Key inclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease
- Age between 50 and 80 years
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score ≥21
- Modified Hoehn and Yahr Stage 2-3
- Stable medication regimen with no medication or dosage changes within the previous month
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Presence of another chronic neurological disorder
- Orthopedic or rheumatologic conditions limiting upper extremity movement
- Previous upper extremity or trunk surgery
- Severe tremor or dyskinesia preventing participation in assessments
- Significant visual or communication impairments interfering with testing
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Primary outcome
Manual Dexterity Measured by Purdue Pegboard Test
Time frame: Baseline
The Purdue Pegboard Test is used to measure gross movements of the hands, fingers and arms, as well as fingertip dexterity. The assessment includes four subtests: preferred hand, non-preferred hand, both hands, and assembly. For the first three subtests, the score is the number of pins placed within a 30 second time limit (higher numbers indicate better dexterity). For the assembly subtest, the score is the number of parts assembled in 60 seconds (higher numbers indicate better dexterity).
Hand Grip Strength Measured by Hand Dynamometer
Time frame: Baseline
Hand grip strength of both dominant and non-dominant hands is measured using a standart digital hand dynamometer. Participants perform maximum isometric contractions in a seated position. Measurement is recorded in kilograms (kg). The average value of three trials is used. Higher scores indicate greater hand grip strength.
Pinch Strength Measured by Pinch Gauge
Time frame: Baseline
Pinch strength is evaluated using a standard mechanical or digital pinch gauge (pinchmeter) to assess lateral (key) pinch strength and palmar (tip-to-tip) pinch strength for both dominant and non-dominant hands. Participants perform maximum isometric contractions. Measurement is recorded in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs). Higher scores indicate greater pinch strength.
Reaction Time Measured by Light Trainer System
Time frame: Baseline
Visual and auditory reaction times are assessed using an electronic light trainer system. The system measures the latency between the presentation of a light stimulus and the participant's physical response (hitting or pressing the light target)while tracking the total number of successfully touched targets. The time score is recorded in milliseconds (ms). Lower time scores and higher hit counts indicate faster reaction time and better overall performance.
Reaction Time Measured by Ruler Drop Test
Time frame: Baseline
The ruler drop test is used to evaluate clinical reaction time based on free-fall distance. A standard metric ruler is suspended and dropped without warning, and the participant catches it as quickly as possible. The distance fallen is measured in centimeters (cm) using a standard formula. Lower distances indicate faster reaction time.
Motor Speed and Coordination Measured by Finger Tapping Test
Time frame: Baseline
The Finger Tapping Test is used to assess motor speed, coordination, and bradykinesia in the upper extremities. Participants are asked to tap their index finger against their thumb as rapidly and fully as possible within a specified time frame (typically 60 seconds) or for a set number of repetitions. The score is recorded as the total number of correct taps achieved within the time limit. Higher numbers of taps indicate faster motor speed and better neurological function.
Trunk Control Measured by Trunk Impairment Scale
Time frame: Baseline
The TIS evaluates motor impairment of the trunk through three subscales: static sitting balance, dynamic sitting balance, and coordination. Total scores range from 0 to 23. Higher scores indicate better trunk control and balance.
Body Awareness Measured by Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ)
Time frame: Baseline
The BAQ is a self-report scale designed to assess non-clinically invert-focused body awareness, such as sensitivity to normal bodily processes and changes. It consists of 18 items scored on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = not at all true of me, 7 = very true of me). Total scores range from 18 to 126. Higher scores indicate a higher level of subjective body awareness.
Upper Extremity Disability Measured by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline
The DASH questionnaire is a 30-item self-report questionnaire designed to measure physical function and symptoms in patients with musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb. Items are scored on a 5-point Likert scale. The responses are used to calculate a scale score ranging from 0 (no disability) to 100 (most severe disability). Lower scores indicate better upper extremity function and less disability.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 30 Sep 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Parkinson Disease, run by Baskent University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 7 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: under way, not looking for participants, as of the sponsor's last update on 30 Sep 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Manual Dexterity Measured by Purdue Pegboard Test (time frame: Baseline). The study lists 9 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 30 Sep 2026.