Surfer’s Myelopathy : Case Series and Literature Review

J Korean Neurosurg Soc, 2018 · DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2017.0262 · Published: November 1, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Orthopedics

Simple Explanation

Surfer’s myelopathy is a rare spinal cord injury affecting novice surfers, often leading to paraplegia after back pain. It's thought to be caused by reduced blood flow to the spinal cord during surfing. The study presents three cases where novice surfers experienced rapid paraplegia following back pain. One patient recovered with induced hypertension, while two remained paraplegic after steroid therapy. Treatment includes hydration, induced hypertension, and sometimes steroids, but there's no standard approach. Early recovery is crucial for long-term neurological outcome.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Three male patients (19–30 years)

Evidence Level

Level 4, Case Series and Literature Review

Key Findings

1
Surfer’s myelopathy can lead to devastating neurological outcomes, including complete paraplegia and bladder/bowel dysfunction.
2
Induced hypertension may be a helpful early treatment for improving spinal cord perfusion and neurological recovery.
3
Early recognition and intervention are important, as early recovery is linked to better long-term neurological outcomes.

Research Summary

This case series reports on three cases of surfer's myelopathy in novice surfers, highlighting the rapid progression of paraplegia following back pain. The study emphasizes the importance of early recognition and intervention, noting that induced hypertension showed promise in one case. The authors advocate for education and awareness to prevent the condition and avoid neurological deterioration, given the potential for severe deficits.

Practical Implications

Public Education

Educate surfers and instructors about the early signs and symptoms of surfer's myelopathy to facilitate early detection and intervention.

Treatment Protocols

Consider induced hypertension as an early treatment option to improve spinal cord perfusion and potentially enhance neurological recovery.

Further Research

Conduct further research to establish standardized treatment protocols for surfer's myelopathy, given the lack of conclusive data.

Surfer’s Myelopathy : Case Series and Literature Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Public Education

Treatment Protocols

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Surfer’s Myelopathy : Case Series and Literature Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Public Education

Treatment Protocols

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?