Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome is a rare but serious disease targeting the nerve roots at the end of the spinal column. These nerves form a bundle called the cauda equine (which is Latin for “horse’s tail”), and when they are damaged at birth or through violent impact/injury, this can cause searing pain, diminished sensation in the extremities, walking difficulties and serious problems with bowel, bladder and sexual function. In most cases, cauda equine syndrome is treated via an emergency surgical decompression procedure in order to remove pressure that is being put on a spinal nerve.