It is seen frequently in older patients who have cervical spinal stenosis. In central cord injuries, significant loss of strength in the arms and hands is seen in the setting of relatively preserved strength in the legs. Sensory loss is variable. The compression may be from bone fragments or a large disc herniation. Patients with anterior spinal cord syndrome usually have complete loss of strength below the level of injury.
Sensory loss is incomplete.
This is a result of interruption of signals from one half of the spinal cord. This syndrome may be seen in cases of stab wounds, blood clots or disc herniation. On the side opposite the injury, there is loss of sensitivity to pain and temperature below the level of the injury. As always, a careful history and physical examination are the first steps in diagnosis. In trauma cases, x-rays of the cervical spine are obtained as soon as possible.