An untreated prolapsed disc can cause life-changing symptoms and needs to be diagnosed urgently to avoid a lifetime of disability.
Cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine. These nerves are crucial to the effective functioning of the nervous system in the lower body. If the cauda equina nerves are damaged, sensation and motor function can be impaired in the following ways:
- Loss of control of the passing of wind
- Loss of control of the passing of faeces
- Loss of control of the bladder – urinary incontinence
- Loss of sexual sensation and function
- Weakness and numbness in the legs
- Foot drop, where the ankle reflexes are lost and the foot drags behind
Patients who develop complete cauda equina syndrome can become dependent on a wheelchair and external care in order to achieve normal, daily activities such as washing and carrying out household chores.
Prolapsed disc impact
A prolapsed disc, also known as a herniated or slipped disc, can put pressure on the cauda equina nerves, preventing them from functioning properly.
Lower back pain might indicate that the patient is developing a prolapsed disc and requires a thorough assessment to determine whether or not further investigation is necessary.
A prolapsed disc will not automatically cause such a devastating condition but the possibility of such an undesirable outcome should prompt extra caution on the part of the medical practitioner attending the patient.
Timely diagnosis and treatment
If cauda equina syndrome is diagnosed in time by the identification of compression of the cauda equina nerves, surgical intervention can sometimes facilitate a good recovery of function in the lower body.
For a diagnosis to be confirmed, it is necessary that the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome are recognised by medical practitioners and the patient is referred for an emergency MRI scan.
Early symptoms that might indicate that the patient is developing cauda equina syndrome could include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Pain and tingling and/or weakness in one or both legs
- Tingling or loss of sensation in the saddle area, between the legs and around the buttocks
- Alteration in sensation when urinating such as poof flow, or having to strain to empty the bladder
Medical negligence
A failure to refer a patient for an emergency MRI when they have possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome may allow their symptoms to deteriorate and bring about a significantly worse outcome. In such circumstances, the medical practitioner might be considered to have acted negligently.
If you or a loved one are suffering with the permanent effects of a late diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, contact us to discuss your situation with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
It might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation which can help to deal with the many problems you may be experiencing.