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Updated: May 25, 2026
05:59
Reproducable Paraplegia by Thoracic Aortic Occlusion in a Murine Model of Spinal Cord Ischemia-reperfusion
Published on: March 3, 2014
Complete paraplegia resulting from surfer's myelopathy
Tomokazu Takakura1, Osamu Yokoyama, Fujiko Sakuma
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yokohama City University Hospital, Kanagawa, Japan.
American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|January 20, 2012
Summary
Surfer's myelopathy can cause catastrophic paralysis in novice surfers. This condition, likely due to prolonged paddling posture and spinal stress, often results in irreversible paraplegia and dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Surfer's myelopathy is a rare condition causing thoracic myelopathy.
- It is characterized by rapid onset paraplegia following back pain in surfers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present case profiles of surfer's myelopathy.
- To discuss the potential pathogenesis and catastrophic neurologic outcomes.
- To emphasize the need for prevention and awareness.
Main Methods:
- Case study of three novice surfers with surfer's myelopathy.
- Review of existing literature on the condition.
Main Results:
- All three patients experienced rapid progression to complete paraplegia (T9-T12) and bladder-bowel dysfunction.
- Neurologic deficits remained despite extensive rehabilitation.
- The condition appears to be an ischemic thoracic myelopathy.
Conclusions:
- Surfer's myelopathy can lead to devastating and permanent neurologic deficits.
- Pathogenesis may involve prolonged prone hyperextension during paddling and repetitive spinal mechanical stress.
- Increased education and awareness are crucial for prevention and avoiding progressive deterioration.
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