A Paralyzing Vacation: Surfer’s Myelopathy

Abstract

A 23-year-old previously healthy female (body mass index = 18.3) on vacation was learning how to surf for the first time. She was in the water for about 1 hour and noticed she had trouble standing up on the surfboard. She was able to paddle back to the shallow waters, but could not walk, and had to be carried out by her boyfriend. In the car, she developed further weakness and numbness of her bilateral lower extremities to the point of losing all sensory input and motor function. She also reported mild lower back pain. She had suffered no injuries, and had no prior history of neck or back injuries. Prior to going into the water, she reported brief dryland practice jumping onto the surfboard. She also extended her spine and neck while on the surfboard, which is typical when performing surfing maneuvers. She had a history of depression, which was well controlled on bupropion and sertraline. Her family history was unremarkable, especially for neurologic diseases. She reported no drug-related or risky sexual behavior. She drank 1 to 2 drinks twice per week. She did not take birth control pills and did not smoke.