Introduction
Central cord syndrome is also called central cervical cord syndrome. It is a neurological condition typically resulting from spinal cord injuries and is a common type of incomplete spinal cord injury.
What Is Central Cord Syndrome?
The central section of the spinal cord or the cervical spinal cord in the neck is injured, resulting in central cord syndrome (CCS). It can make the arms and, in certain cases, the legs weak. Incomplete spinal cord damage is another name for central cord condition. The majority of people who suffer from this ailment are not entirely paralyzed.
The brain's capability to send and receive messages to and from portions of the body below the injury site is hampered but not completely disabled. Damage to the major nerve fibers that convey information directly from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord is linked to this syndrome. These nerves are particularly crucial for the function of the hands and arms. Paralysis or loss of precise control of motions in the arms and hands are common symptoms, with leg movements being less affected. Sensory loss and bladder control may occur below the damaged site, as well as unpleasant feelings such as tingling, burning, or a dull ache. The extent of nerve injury determines the total quantity and kind of functional loss.
What Is the Cause Behind Central Cord Syndrome?
The most common cause of central cord syndrome is neck trauma, which results in damage to the vertebrae or herniation of the spinal discs. It can also occur in people over the age of 50 as a result of the gradual degeneration of the vertebrae and discs, which constricts the spinal column and may lead to spinal cord compression when the neck is hyper-extended.
Central cord syndrome is most common in patients who already have arthritis in their neck bones. The canal through which there is a passage for the spinal cord might become small in such settings, causing the spinal cord to be squeezed if the neck is forcefully extended and the head is tilted back, as in a vehicle collision.
The bones of the neck are normally free of visible breaks or fractures, and the spine may be stable. Bruising, bleeding, and swelling can occur when the spinal cord is squished, especially in the core or central region of the spinal cord.
The arms are harmed more than the legs in this condition because the spinal cord is arranged with nerves controlling arm movement in the middle and nerves controlling leg movement more toward the outside.
As a result, central cord syndrome patients' arms are typically weaker than their legs. Many central cord syndrome patients restore the use of their legs and can walk, but they are unable to use their arms and hands efficiently.
What Are the Symptoms of Central Cord Syndrome?
The central nervous system (CNS) inhibits nerve transmissions between the brain and the spinal cord in Central cord syndrome. Central cord syndrome is characterized by a loss of nerve signals between the brain and the arms and hands. Blocked nerve signals usually affect the arms and hands, but they can also impair the legs. One could experience:
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Aching.
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Burning.
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Tingling.
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Inability to move the hands for little movements (fine motor skills).
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Numbness in the arm or hand.
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Weakness or paralysis.
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Muscle spasticity is a disorder that causes muscles to stiffen.
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Walking becomes difficult.
The severity of the ailment or injury will determine the symptoms. One may lose feeling and bladder control below the damaged site leading to urinary incontinence. Some people are unable to walk or suffer from gait issues.
How to Diagnose Central Cord Syndrome?
A detailed medical history, comprehensive general and neurological tests, computed tomography (CT) scan, cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and plain cervical spine X-rays, including guided flexion and extension views, are all part of the evaluation of a patient with suspected central cord syndrome.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A diagnostic technique that uses magnetic forces and computer technologies to create three-dimensional images of body components can provide solid evidence of spinal cord compression caused by bone, disc, or hematoma. Other imaging techniques may overlook ligamentous and soft tissue injuries, which can be detected with an MRI.
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Computerized Tomography Scan: A computer-enhanced X-ray imaging technology that depicts bone detail better than any other imaging device. It also depicts the size and shape of the spinal canal, as well as its contents and surrounding structures. It is frequently done before an MRI scan. It provides a complete collection of information for therapy decision-making when combined with MRI images.
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X-ray: The anatomy of the vertebrae and the contour of the joints can be seen by using radiation to create a film or photograph of a part of the body. X-rays of the spine can reveal injuries and dislocations, as well as the severity and extent of arthritis. The examination of spinal stability is aided by flexion/extension views (bending the neck forward and backward). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans produce images that are both static, which means they do not assess movement. Plain X-rays of the spine in flexion and extension can be used to determine dynamic (movement-related) stability or instability. These views can assist in evaluating whether a cervical collar or cervical spine stabilization surgery is required.
How Is Central Cord Syndrome Managed and Treated?
Although, for some people, near-normal functions are restored, there is no definite cure for central cord syndrome. Although medication therapy, surgery, and rest are frequently used, there is no conventional course of treatment. The degree of compression of the spinal cord and vertebral instability is determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Vertebral instability caused by a traumatic injury or a herniated cervical disc is frequently treated with surgery to prevent future spinal cord damage. According to recent findings, having surgery sooner may boost the odds of recovery. Numerous recent studies suggest that surgery may be therapeutic in people who have persistent spinal cord compression and neurological degeneration.
Conclusion
Nonsurgical treatments and surgery can be used by healthcare experts to restore feeling and function to the arms, hands, and legs. One should discuss their expectations with their healthcare provider. Physical and occupational therapy can assist in maintaining strength and developing coping strategies for when daily tasks become tough. Everyone's recovery time is different. Recovery is influenced by the age and the degree of the injury or condition. People over the age of 50, on average, take longer to recuperate than younger people.
