Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome is often the result of acute back trauma which causes injury to the lower end of the spinal cord. The bottom of the spinal cord (the cauda equina or horse’s tail) is a structure comprised of several large neurological structures which extend to form the spinal nerve roots in the lumbar, sacral and coccygeal spinal regions.

Cauda Equina

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?

CES is a serious condition that occurs when something compresses one or more of these spinal nerves in the lower back. Typical signs are extreme pain and weakness in the lower body and the inability to control bowel and/or bladder functions. CES is a medical emergency, since damage to the spinal nerves can become permanent and should be treated immediately. CES should not be confused with typical nerve compression, which might be painful, but is not usually a major health threat.

CES Causes and Treatment

CES can be caused by several possible sources:

* Severe lower back trauma can cause CES.
* Herniated discs can rarely cause CES.
* Extreme spondylolisthesis might cause CES.
* Extreme spinal stenosis might cause CES.
* Multiple vertebral fractures can cause CES.

Treatment depends greatly on the causation and severity of symptoms. The worst cases are typically surgical emergencies and necessary measures will be taken to correct nerve compression in the operating room. Less severe instances of CES might be observed and managed more conservatively, hoping for symptomatic resolution without surgery.

Cauda Equina Syndrome Advice

CES is a real nightmare, but is luckily a rare event, even with significant back injury. Diagnosis of any condition which even vaguely resembles CES should be made immediately by a qualified emergency unit or trauma center. Do not play around with such severe spinal symptoms, as they might lead to permanent disability or functional reduction. Be warned also, that some lower back conditions might appear to be much like CES, but do not have the same problematic potential. Some lower back issues might enact scary symptoms including urinary concerns, but might resolve quickly and without treatment. Psychosomatic sciatica symptoms can also include completely harmless urinary and bowel problems, but can only be effectively treated with knowledge therapy. Remember, accurate diagnosis of CES is the most important part of recovery…

Cauda Equina Syndrome to Sciatica Home
7/10/08 Revised 12/14/09