Multilevel Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Hematomas in a Recreational Weight Lifter

Abstract

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a nontraumatic condition that potentially compresses the spinal cord by accumulating blood in the epidural space. We report a case of multilevel SSEH in a 27-year-old male recreational weight lifter, presenting with acute lower back pain and bilateral leg weakness after deadlifts. Initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed subacute epidural hematomas with distinct signal intensities. The hematomas spanned multiple thoracic and lumbar levels without any predisposing medical conditions. Conservative management, including strict bed rest and pain management, led to marked improvement, with follow-up MRI indicating reduced hematoma size and expanded dural sac dimension. This case highlights the rare possibility of long-extending SSEH from weight lifting in individuals without risk factors and underscores the effectiveness of conservative treatment for multilevel spinal epidural hematomas.