Why is central cord syndrome often associated with fractures and dislocations?

Central cord syndrome is primarily associated with hyperextension injuries of the cervical spine, particularly in older adults or those with pre-existing spinal conditions. When the cervical spine undergoes hyperextension, it can cause damage to the central part of the spinal cord. This can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, including weakness in the upper limbs while the lower limbs may remain relatively unaffected—a hallmark of central cord syndrome.

The mechanism behind this injury typically involves the anterior portion of the spinal cord being more susceptible to injury in cases where the spine is forced backward. This can happen during falls or accidents that cause the head to extend backward severely, resulting in structural changes or damage to the spinal cord's central areas.

Considering the other choices, they either reference conditions that are not directly relevant to central cord syndrome or do not accurately describe the mechanism involved in this specific injury type. Understanding that hyperextension of the cervical spine is a key factor in the pathophysiology helps clarify why central cord syndrome is frequently seen alongside fractures and dislocations related to such injuries.