What is cauda equina syndrome?

Pressure on nerves : This syndrome occurs due to pressure on the nerves in the lumbar spinal canal. After the spinal cord ends, the nerves going down to the legs and bladder form a collection of stringlike structures called the "horse tail" or cauda equina in latin. Severe pressure on this group of nerves can cause profound leg weakness, and loss of bladder/bowel control. This usually occurs due to large disc bulges.

Compression: Cauda equina is the cluster of nerve roots distal to the end of the spinal cord in the lumbosacral cistern, at the lower back. Compression due to disc rupture, tumor, or narrowing can cause leg weakness, and/or numbness, inability to initiate urination, constipation or diarrhea, and various expressions of pain. Can be lumber stenosis, which is gradual. All of the above need evaluation, ?Op.

Compression: Cauda equina is the cluster of nerve roots distal to the end of the spinal cord in the lumbosacral cistern, at the lower back. Compression due to disc rupture, tumor, or narrowing can cause leg weakness, and/or numbness, inability to initiate urination, constipation or diarrhea, and various expressions of pain. Can be lumber stenosis, which is gradual. All of the above need evaluation, ?Op.

Nerve compression: A cauda equina syndrome involves the lumbar spine below the tip of the spinal cord, which usually ends at the l1-2 disc space. The syndrome involves compression of all of the nerves within the spinal canal and is an acute emergency. There are a variety of problems that can compromise the spinal canal such as massive disc ruptures, abcess, hematoma, and tumors. Bladder dysfunction is common.