Transient quadriparesis in the athlete

Transient quadriparesis is a rare cervical spine injury caused by axial loading of the neck in extension or flexion. Transient quadriparesis is associated with sensory or motor functional changes or a combined sensorimotor deficit. The athlete may complain of total body numbness and moderate to severe weakness in all four extremities. The episodes, by definition, are not permanent, and complete sensory and motor recovery occurs in 10 minutes to 48 hours. In all cases of the above phenomenon, radiographs are negative for fractures and dislocations but frequently demonstrate evidence of congenital spinal stenosis, acquired stenosis, cervical instability, or congenital abnormalities such as Klippel-Feil syndrome. A considerable amount of controversy exists regarding return-to-play criteria and the risk for more severe injury after an athlete experiences an episode of transient quadriparesis.