Cauda Equina Syndrome

Millions of Americans suffer from low back pain and leg pain.   While most back and leg injuries are minor, some people suffer cauda equina syndrome.  Cauda equina syndrome is a rare condition caused when the nerve roots in the lower back are compressed, resulting in pain, loss of feeling, and loss of movement.

Cauda aquina syndrome is a surgical emergency.   A person suffering from cauda aquina syndrome needs medical treatment fast.  Surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves must be done within 48 hours after a patient experiences symptoms of cauda equina syndrome.

Cauda aquina syndrome can be caused by a traumatic injury, resulting in a fracture or a herniated disk.  Cauda aquina syndrome can also be caused by an infection, spinal lesion, tumor or the narrowing of the spinal canal that is often part of the aging process.  In very rare cases, cauda aquina syndrome can be caused by arteriovenous malformation, a birth defect resulting in an abnormal connection between blood vessels.

Without immediate medical treatment, cauda equina syndrome can cause life-long injury, including permanent paralysis.  Other injuries include loss of bowel and bladder control, and loss of sexual function.

Diagnosing cauda equina syndrome can be difficult because not all patients suffer the same symptoms.  However, you should see your doctor immediately if you have one of more of these conditions:

• Loss of feeling in your legs or feet;
• Lower back pain that may radiate into your legs;
• Pain, numbness or weakness that makes it difficult to climb stairs, get up from a chair or causes you to stumble;
• Sudden problems with bowel or bladder function, such as incontinence or trouble urinating;
• Sudden sexual dysfunction.