Based on publicly available information, there is reason for optimism regarding Jack Campbell’s recovery.
Dr. Ari Berg, a spine surgeon at Hackensack Meridian Health, told The Post on Thursday that while the precise nature and severity of Campbell’s injury remain unclear, the movement in his legs is “definitely encouraging.”
Dr. Berg also explained why Campbell has regained movement in his lower body before his upper body.
The four‑year veteran linebacker provided an update Wednesday, stating he has “full movement” in his lower body and is “continuing to make progress with movement in my upper body,” his first comments since the frightening neck injury on Sunday.
Dr. Berg explained that Campbell may be suffering from central cord syndrome, an injury that can occur when the neck is hyperextended, causing bruising or a “stinger” to the center of the spinal cord behind the cervical vertebrae.
“At the very center of the spinal cord is where you have control of the arms,” Berg said. “More toward the periphery of the spinal cord, you have control of the legs, which is why a contusion in the central portion more commonly results in weakness of the arms and upper extremities rather than the legs.”
Dr. Berg added that the injury is incomplete, which is encouraging because the spinal cord appears to be fully intact.
Regarding the recovery timeline, particularly for upper‑body movement, Dr. Berg noted that prognoses are individualized. Adequate time must be allowed for swelling to subside before a definitive prognosis can be made.
“The long‑term prognosis is still uncertain; we need more information before we can make a final judgment,” he said, adding that Campbell has “his work cut out for him” in rehabilitation.
“It could be weeks, months, or even longer. It’s too early to determine,” Dr. Berg continued. “What is encouraging is that he’s already shown improvements, and we hope he continues on that positive trajectory for his upper body.”
Nevertheless, the 26‑year‑old has a chance of a full recovery, as some patients do. Others may experience residual deficits, the extent of which depends on the severity of the injury and its impact on the spinal cord.
USA Today’s medical reporting notes that central cord syndrome can be extremely painful, causing heightened sensitivity in the arms and hands to touch and significantly reducing grip strength.
During the fourth quarter of the Lions’ 19‑15 victory over the Vikings, Campbell attempted to tackle Minnesota tight end T.J. Hockenson when his neck and back appeared to “crunch.”
He was then placed on a stretcher and transported by ambulance to a local Detroit hospital.
In a statement released by the Lions, Campbell said he remains “very optimistic” and is taking “things one day at a time.”
Campbell, a father to a 4‑month‑old son, Cooper, and his wife Megan, is in his fourth NFL season after being selected 18th overall by Detroit in the 2023 draft.
He has recorded 57 tackles across seven games this season.
The Lions (5‑2) travel to face the Dolphins (1‑6) on Sunday afternoon.