Neuro – Central Cord Syndrome

Episode 19: Central Cord Syndrome Host Jimmy McKay Featured guest Bridget Ripa Notes Alexis Lancaster What is it? Damage to the central portion of the spinal cord   How does it happen? Hyperextension of the cervical spine is the typical cause Inflammation or pressure on the cord centrally   Anatomy/Presentation Tricky Damages spinothalamic, corticospinal, and dorsal columns Upper extremities weaker than lower extremities Greater motor deficits than sensory deficits The sensation of the sacral region is present   Differential diagnosis The other spinal cord syndromes Rely on clinical presentation Imaging (CT/MRI)   Special tests CT/MRI Clinical presentations (UE deficits>LE)   Treatment Medically stable first Bowel/bladder program Motor learning Task-specific training Weight-bearing Neuromuscular re-education Strengthening Tone management FES Aerobic training Positioning Bracing/splinting Locomotion if applicable LE stronger than UE! So you will probably be walking Keeping an eye on shoulder pain Allow compensation in this population   How it will look on the NPTE Upper involved more than lower (hallmark sign) Mechanism of injury→ hyperextension injury