Central cord syndrome
Central cord syndrome (pronunciation: sen-truhl kord sin-drohm) is a form of spinal cord injury characterized by impairment in the arms and hands and to a lesser extent in the legs. The brain's ability to send and receive signals to and from parts of the body below the site of injury is reduced but not entirely blocked. This syndrome is associated with damage to the central cord of the spinal cord, which is centrally located and stretches from the neck to the lower back.
Etymology
The term "central cord syndrome" is derived from the Latin centrum meaning "center", and the Greek skor, skoros meaning "hard", and syndromos meaning "running together". The term describes the condition where the symptoms run together due to damage in the central part of the spinal cord.
Symptoms
The symptoms of central cord syndrome can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury, but they often include loss of fine motor skills, such as difficulty in grasping objects, and varying degrees of sensory loss below the level of injury. Other symptoms may include urinary incontinence and muscle weakness.
Causes
Central cord syndrome is most often caused by trauma to the neck, such as a car accident or fall, which causes the spinal cord to be compressed. It can also be caused by conditions that cause narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, such as arthritis or spinal stenosis.
Treatment
Treatment for central cord syndrome typically involves physical therapy and occupational therapy to help improve mobility and function. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with central cord syndrome varies greatly depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's overall health. Some individuals may regain some or all of their lost function, while others may have permanent disabilities.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Central cord syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Central cord syndrome
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