From the Research
Rehabilitation for central cord syndrome should prioritize a comprehensive approach, focusing on maximizing functional recovery through early initiation of intensive rehabilitation, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as management of spasticity and neuropathic pain, as supported by the most recent study 1. The goal of rehabilitation is to improve upper extremity function, particularly fine motor skills and hand dexterity, which are often most affected in central cord syndrome.
- Physical therapy forms the cornerstone of treatment, with exercises tailored to improve upper limb function.
- Occupational therapy helps patients relearn activities of daily living through adaptive techniques and equipment.
- Speech therapy may be necessary if there are swallowing difficulties.
- Medications such as baclofen or tizanidine for spasticity, and gabapentin or pregabalin for neuropathic pain, are commonly used to manage symptoms. Rehabilitation should begin as early as possible after medical stabilization, with the most significant recovery occurring in the first 6 months, as noted in studies 2, 3. The prognosis varies based on injury severity, patient age, and timing of treatment, but many patients can achieve significant functional improvement, particularly in lower extremity function, with upper extremity recovery typically being slower and potentially incomplete, requiring long-term adaptation strategies and assistive devices to maximize independence, as discussed in 4, 5. Key factors associated with a better functional outcome include higher admission functional scores, absence of spasticity, and younger age, highlighting the importance of early and comprehensive rehabilitation, as found in 4. Overall, a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation, incorporating the latest evidence and individualized treatment plans, is crucial for optimizing outcomes in patients with central cord syndrome, as emphasized by the most recent and highest quality study 1.