A victim of a serious accident suffering with lower back pain would rarely consider his condition a medical emergency. Unfortunately, this pain could be a sign that he is suffering from cauda equina syndrome—a relatively rare problem that requires immediate medical care to prevent permanent damage.
Cauda equina syndrome is the compression of the nerves at the end of the spinal cord within the spinal canal, cutting off sensation and movement. These nerve roots send and receive messages to and from a person’s legs, feet, and pelvic organs. Common causes of this condition include:
- Severe ruptured disk in the lumbar area
- Spinal stenosis—the narrowing of the spinal canal
- Spinal legion or malignant tumor
- Spinal infection, inflammation, fracture, or hemorrhaging
- Complications arising from a severe lumbar spinal injury, such as a car or slip and fall accident
What Are the Symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Signs that a person has cauda equina syndrome can develop over time and are associated with other conditions, making diagnosis more challenging. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Severe pain in the lower back region
- Pain, numbness, and weakness in one or both of the legs that causes the person to stumble more or have difficulty getting up when sitting.
- Loss of sensation or different feelings than normal in the person’s legs, buttocks, inner thighs, or feet that may worsen over time.
- Problems with bladder and bowel control—both elimination and holding it in
- Sudden sexual dysfunction
How Is Cauda Equina Syndrome Treated?
A person with cauda equina syndrome needs prompt medical care to relieve the pressure on the compressed nerves. Treatment options include the following:
- Surgery. Immediate surgery is required to prevent life-altering, permanent damage, such as paralysis of the legs, loss of bladder and bowel control, loss of sexual sensations, and other problems.
- Antibiotics. If there is an infection, antibiotics would be given, often intravenously.
- Radiotherapy or chemotherapy. If a tumor has caused the compressed nerves, the person would need radiotherapy or chemotherapy after surgery.
Even with treatment, many people who develop cauda equina syndrome can experience chronic debilitating symptoms. If you or a family member has developed this medical condition after a serious accident caused by a person’s or business’ negligence, fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can assist you.