Spinal Shock

Spinal shock is a transient loss of spinal cord function below the site of acute injury, characterized by flaccid paralysis and areflexia. Pathophysiology involves disruption of descending excitatory inputs, leading to spinal cord hypoactivity. Diagnosis is clinical and temporal, distinguished from neurogenic shock and long-term deficits. Management focuses on hemodynamic stabilization and rehabilitation. Prognosis depends on injury severity and recovery of reflexes over time.