Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-018-0041-3 · Published: January 3, 2018
Central cord syndrome (CCS) is an injury to the center of the spinal cord. It typically results from hyperextension injuries, especially in older individuals with pre-existing spinal conditions. This case report describes a 35-year-old novice surfer who developed CCS after falling off his surfboard and hitting the sea floor. He experienced acute tetraplegia and sensory deficits upon arrival at the hospital. The patient was treated conservatively and underwent rehabilitation, leading to near-full neurological recovery within a month. This case suggests that CCS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neurological injuries in surfers, even in the absence of typical risk factors.
Clinicians should consider CCS in the differential diagnosis of neurological injuries in surfers, even in younger individuals without typical risk factors.
Novice surfers should be educated about potential neurological injuries and advised to gradually increase their surfing endurance and adjust their surfing level to sea conditions.
Screening for congenital spinal stenosis might be considered in individuals engaging in high-risk sports like surfing.