Investigation of Somatosensory Perception, Pain, Kinesiophobia, and Upper Extremity Functional Skills in Cervical Disc Herniation: A Case-Control Study

Cervical disc herniation (SDH) occurs when nerve roots and/or spinal cord are compressed due to degeneration or displacement of the cervical intervertebral disc and can present with pain, sensory loss, muscle weakness, and functional limitations. Because the C5-T1 nerve roots provide motor and sensory innervation from the shoulder to the hand, SDH can cause not only pain but also impairments in somatosensory perception, tactile sensations, and proprioceptive awareness. Nerve root compression disrupts the integrity of sensory functions such as touch, vibration, and two-point discrimination, negatively impacting upper extremity abilities. Furthermore, pain and central sensitization processes lower the pain threshold, further limiting motor performance and activities of daily living. Therefore, the combined evaluation of somatosensory perception, pain, and functional abilities in individuals with SDH is crucial for a holistic understanding of the clinical picture.