Cauda Equina Syndrome is a very serious lower spine issue that comes with terrible symptoms. Left untreated, a person dealing with Cauda Equina Syndrome may have severe pain in the lower back and legs for the rest of their life.
Any forceful trauma can cause compression on the nerve roots coming off of the lower spine (known as the horse’s tail) end of the spinal cord and lead to this devastating injury.
What are the symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome include:
- Pain in the lower back (sciatic nerve)
- Numbness or tingling in the back of the legs, hips, inner thigh or buttocks.Bowel and urinary incontinence.
- Physical sexual dysfunction.
- Paralysis or weakness in the lower limbs and extremities.
Cauda Equina Syndrome can be either acute or chronic. It’s imperative to see a doctor right away if your symptoms are acute. This means that they were brought on by forceful trauma. Most of these types of injuries require surgery within 24-48 hours. Left untreated the condition will become chronic.
What causes Cauda Equina Syndrome?
The severe force caused by accidents or falls can cause Cauda Equina Syndrome. These include:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck or bus accidents
- Gunshot wounds
- Falling down the stairs, on the ice, in the kitchen, on the sidewalk, etc.
Any situation in which a person is forcefully hit, thrown or falls can cause Cauda Equina Syndrome. If you see a doctor immediately after an accident or fall they will schedule emergency surgery to correct the problem. As part of your recovery, you can expect the doctor to prescribe physical therapy. If your condition is chronic, physical therapy and daily stretching can help you to cope with the condition.
If you are diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome following an accident or fall caused by another person’s negligence seek experienced legal guidance. You have a right to expect fair compensation for your losses.