People living with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) urgently need better treatments and better recovery.

DCM is a common and disabling spinal cord condition caused by age-related changes in the neck compressing the spinal cord.  

While surgery can prevent further deterioration, many patients continue to live with long-term disability.

RECEDE-Myelopathy is the first regenerative medicine clinical trial in DCM and represents an important step toward improving recovery beyond surgery.

We are inviting patients, carers, clinicians, researchers, and supporters to add their names in support of this important work.

DCM has significant impact on individuals 

Imagine living in a world where one day you wake up and can no longer carry out simple, everyday tasks due to a progressive spinal cord injury known as Degenerative Cervical  Myelopathy (DCM). For those who suffer from this devastating condition, this is a harsh reality. Myelopathy affects countless individuals, robbing them of their mobility and independence.

DCM can lead to:

• weakness,
• numbness,
• impaired walking and balance,
• loss of hand dexterity,
• chronic pain,
• fatigue,
• and reduced independence.

Surgery is currently the standard treatment and can help prevent further neurological deterioration. However, many patients continue to experience significant long-term disability even after successful surgery.

At present, there are no established therapies proven to restore spinal cord function after injury in DCM.

Why RECEDE-Myelopathy Matters

RECEDE-Myelopathy is widely regarded as a landmark study in DCM research.

As the first regenerative medicine clinical trial in the field, the study aims to investigate whether recovery after surgery can be improved through restorative treatment strategies.

The trial brings together:

• clinicians,
• scientists,
• patient organisations,
• and international collaborators

with the shared goal of improving outcomes for people living with DCM.

The study represents an important opportunity to advance research focused not only on stabilisation, but also on recovery and restoration of function.

Voices from the DCM Community

“Surgery stopped my decline, but I still struggle with daily activities.”

“Research into recovery matters enormously to patients like me.”

“People living with DCM deserve treatments that go beyond stabilisation.”

“There is still so much function and independence many of us hope to regain.”

Why We Support This Work

Myelopathy.org is an official partner organisation in RECEDE-Myelopathy.

Together with patients, carers, clinicians, researchers, and supporters internationally, we wish to express strong support for the continuation of this important work.

The DCM community has long faced limited therapeutic innovation despite substantial disability and impact on quality of life.

RECEDE-Myelopathy represents hope grounded in rigorous science, collaboration, and a commitment to improving recovery for people affected by DCM worldwide.

We respectfully encourage continued support for RECEDE-Myelopathy and for research focused on restorative therapies for DCM.

Please sign to show your support for advancing recovery research for people living with DCM.

As the first charity dedicated to combatting this disorder, we are tirelessly advocating for treatments and support for those in need. 

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

What is DCM?
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a condition where age-related changes in the cervical spine place pressure on the spinal cord. Symptoms can include pain, weakness, numbness, balance difficulties, loss of dexterity, and mobility impairment.

Can surgery cure DCM?
Surgery is currently the main treatment and can help stop further deterioration. However, many people continue to experience significant disability even after successful surgery.

What is RECEDE-Myelopathy?
RECEDE-Myelopathy is the first regenerative medicine clinical trial in DCM. The study aims to investigate whether recovery after surgery can be improved.

Why is this study important?
At present, no established treatments exist to restore spinal cord function after injury in DCM. The study represents an important step toward developing therapies focused on recovery, not only stabilisation.

What does signing the campaign mean?
Signing the statement shows support for continued research into better treatments and recovery for people living with DCM.

Who can sign?
Anyone supportive of advancing DCM research can sign, including:

• patients,
• carers,
• clinicians,
• researchers,
• healthcare professionals,
• friends and family members,
• and members of the public.

Does signing mean I am joining the trial?
No. Signing the statement does not enrol you in the study. It only indicates support for the continuation of this research.

Who is organising the campaign?
The campaign is supported by Myelopathy.org, an official partner in RECEDE-Myelopathy.