What is Central Cord Syndrome?

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

There are two types of spinal cord injuries: complete (loss of all feeling and motor function) and incomplete (partial loss of feeling and motor function). Central cord syndrome (CCS) is the most common form of an incomplete spinal cord injury that causes impairment to the arms, hands, and in rare instances, the legs. Here’s what you need to know.

How Does Central Cord Syndrome Occur?

CCS can happen from a neck (cervical) hyperextension injury. This type of spinal cord injury occurs when the head is forcefully titled back (such as in an auto accident). The forceful extension of the neck can cause squeezing and compression of the spinal cord.

The compression can result in bruising, bleeding, or swelling in the center of the spinal cord, which is the area where the movement of the arms is controlled. Typically CCS does not affect the movement of the legs, so many people with CCS can walk but may not have sufficient use of their arms or hands.

Symptoms of Central Cord Syndrome

The most common symptoms associated with CCS are:

• Weakness in the upper extremities
• Paralysis or loss of fine control movement in arms and hands
• Neck pain

Some people with CCS may also have some sensory loss below the injury site, such as bladder control and difficulty urinating.

Prognosis and Treatment

While some people with CCS may have some function recovery, it’s critical to quickly address the condition. Those who received medical care and treatments for CCS soon after their injury have a better chance of regaining a significant amount of function. Some of the most common treatments and therapies for CCS are:

• Immobilization of the neck with a cervical collar
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy

In the most severe central cord syndrome cases, surgery may be needed to alleviate spinal cord compression.

Suffered a Spinal Cord Injury? We Are Here For You.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions and pursue compensation.

Our legal team has the experience and resources needed to take on the challenges of spinal cord injury cases. The Beasley Firm, LLC has secured several record-breaking settlements and verdicts for our clients, and we’re here to help you, too.

Call now for your free case consultation with our team today.