Cauda Equina Syndrome is a serious condition that can occur in a number of different ways. In this article we take a closer look at what Cauda Equina Syndrome is, how it might be caused, and what you should do if you are suffering from the condition.
What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?
The spinal cord extends from the brain, all the way through the vertebral column, ending at the bottom of the spine in the lower back. It is here that a bundle of nerves, called the ‘cauda equina’, is located. These nerves branch off from the spinal cord, sending signals to the muscles and organs in the body. Should these nerves become compressed in any way, then someone is said to be suffering from Cauda Equina Syndrome. Although this condition is rare, it is very serious, as the nerves will quickly become damaged – sometimes this damage can be permanent.
How is Cauda Equina Syndrome Caused?
Compression of the cauda equina may arise for a variety of reasons, some of the most common of which include:-
- Trauma – If the lower back suffers a form of physical trauma, then the internal damage can cause the nerves to be compressed. A typical example of this is a crushing injury sustained in a car crash.
- Slipped (herniated) disk – Slipped disks often heal of their own accord. However, if the lumbar disk herniates (in the bottom of the back), then the separated disk material may push on the nerves.
- Spinal stenosis – Spinal stenosis is a condition which sees a narrowing of the spinal canal. This narrowing will put pressure on the cauda equina.
- Tumours – A tumour growing at the bottom of the spine will also press upon the bundle of nerves. This will get increasingly worse the larger the tumour grows.
- Inflammatory conditions – A condition that causes the spine to become inflamed will again narrow the spinal canal, compressing the cauda equina nerves. A common example of this is Paget’s disease.
- Infection – Infections can attacks the spinal canal, causing damage to the nerve roots.
Cauda Equina and Medical Treatment
If you are suffering from Cauda Equina Syndrome, it is vital you are given treatment as soon as possible. However, medical professionals must first identify the underlying cause, as this will determine the course of treatment to be given. For example, if you have an inflammatory condition, then antibiotics will be administered. If you have a crushing injury then decompression surgery will need to be carried out. Or if you have a tumour, a cancer treatment plan must be devised.
Therefore only by diagnosing the underlying cause will treatment be effective. If medical professionals fail to do this in a prompt fashion (ie. because the necessary tests were not carried out) then permanent injury may occur. This could in turn amount to medical negligence, as a delay in diagnosis and treatment may represent a substandard level of care.