What is cauda equina syndrome?

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.