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back pain

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda Equina Syndrome is also known as CES. This condition is a medical emergency which must be handled by an experienced care practitioner. Virtually every case of cauda equina presents a dire situation for the patient, who should seek assistance from a hospital emergency room immediately.<

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?

Cauda Equina Syndrome The cauda equina is the structure which consists of various spinal nerve roots which branch off the base of the spinal cord. The actual cord ends somewhere between the lower thoracic region and the upper lumbar region in most individuals. However, these spinal nerve roots continue throughout the remainder of the lumbar spine and serve the neurological needs of the lower body region. CES occurs when one or more of these nerve roots is seriously compressed or injured. While some causes of CES are completely treatable, others might enact considerable and permanent nerve injury.

Cauda Equina Symptoms

The most common symptom of this condition is PAIN. Most affected individuals will report serious lower back pain and possible related sciatic nerve symptoms which might include tingling, numbness or weakness anywhere in the lower anatomy. Loss of bladder and/or bowel control is also very common. Some patients can not urinate or void, while others can not prevent accidental discharge of urine or feces. The sexual organs are also often targeted by this condition, preventing proper function in both males and females. Genital pain is possible and might be very severe.

Cauda Equina Syndrome and Herniated Discs

CES can occur from a herniated disc in very rare circumstances. Typically this happens from extreme trauma to the lower spine and rarely results from spinal degeneration. Car accidents and other massive injuries are the usually causes of CES in the majority of patients. CES can occur from other spinal conditions as well, including spinal stenosis, drastic spinal curvature and some congenital abnormalities. Remember… most herniated discs will not cause any serious or lasting pain and will only cause CES type syndromes in the most extreme of circumstances.

Cauda Equina Syndrome Advice

This is no condition to play around with. If you notice the telltale bladder, bowel or sexual organ symptoms related to a possible CES condition, go directly to a hospital. The faster you receive treatment, the better, since spinal nerves are very delicate structures. The longer they must endure injury, the greater the chance that some or all of the damage might become permanent. CES is rare, but can be a life altering experience and not in a good way…
Cauda Equina Syndrome to Herniated Disc Home
7/10/08 Revised 12/5/09

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