Spinal cord compression physical examination

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Ganti M.B.B.S. [2]

Overview

The most significant physical examination findings in acute cases is point tenderness of back. Other physical examination findings include paralysis of limbs below the level of compression decreased sensation below the level of compression Lhermitte's sign (intermittent shooting electrical sensation) hyperreflexia,Babinski sign positive

Physical Examination

General Appearance

• Patients may appear in acute distress due to back pain

Vital signs

• Low BP in case of neurogenic shock
• Hypothermia

Back

• Point tenderness at the site of compression
• Decreased range of motion

Neurologic

• Paralysis of limbs below the level of compression
• Decreased sensation below the level of compression
• Lhermitte's sign (intermittent shooting electrical sensation)
• Hyperreflexia may be present.
• Babinski sign positive

ASIA Impairment Scale for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Grade	Impairment
	Sensory function	Motor function
A	Complete loss	Complete loss
B	Partial loss	Complete loss
C	Partial loss	Partial loss
D	Normal	Partial loss
E	Normal	Normal