Cauda equina syndrome is a rare condition. It occurs when the nerves at the end of the spinal cord are damaged.
While it is uncommon, affecting only a few thousand people in the U.S. every year, cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency. Without quick treatment, the condition can cause permanent damage and even paralysis.
The cauda equina is the bundle of nerve roots that forms the tail of the spinal cord in the lumbar spine. These nerves travel through the spinal canal and out into the pelvis and legs. They provide function for your legs, bladder and bowels. When these nerves are compressed or otherwise damaged, your legs may not be able to function or move.
The experts at the UK HealthCare Comprehensive Spine Center can provide the prompt treatment patients need in cases of cauda equina syndrome.
Cauda equina syndrome symptoms include:
- Loss of bladder and bowel control (urinary or fecal incontinence)
- Loss of sensation in your buttocks, genitals or thighs (often called saddle anesthesia)
- Lower back pain
- Sexual dysfunction
- Urinary retention – when your bladder is full, but you do not feel the need to go
- Weakness in your legs
If you are having issues with bowel and bladder function, loss of sensation or weakness, seek emergency medical care immediately.
The most common cause of cauda equina syndrome is a herniated disk. Often, an injury or strain will cause a herniated disk. Sometimes, however, there is no known cause.
Other possible causes of cauda equina syndrome include:
- Congenital anomalies such as spina bifida
- Fracture
- Post-surgical complications
- Spinal arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
- Spinal hemorrhage
- Spinal infection
- Spinal stenosis
- Spinal tumors or lesions
- Trauma such as car accidents, falls or gunshot wounds
In rare cases, cauda equina syndrome has been linked to chiropractic manipulation. If you are diagnosed with any of the above conditions, get clearance from a spine specialist before undergoing chiropractic manipulation.
Cauda equina syndrome is most common in young men. This is due to their increased risk of trauma and violence.
Cauda equina is a medical emergency. It typically requires urgent or emergency surgery once diagnosed. As a result, if you have symptoms of cauda equina, get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible.
When you arrive at the UK Emergency Department, you will sign in at the welcome center or information desk. After you provide some basic information, a triage nurse will discuss your symptoms with you and determine the type of treatment needed.
In the ER, a spine specialist will evaluate you to determine the best treatment plan.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment is needed. Patients who have surgery within 48 hours of symptom onset often have the best chance of improving symptoms. These include motor symptoms, sensory symptoms, and bladder and bowel function, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.