Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina comprises ten nerve pairs toward the end of the spinal cord, which controls and regulates the function of the lower limb and organs of the pelvic region. Compression of these nerves leads to cauda equina syndrome, which is a surgical emergency. Signs and symptoms include bladder and bowel incontinence, severe low backache, reflex loss in lower limbs, pain or numbness in the saddle area, weakness or sensory loss in the lower limbs, etc. A herniated disk, spinal infection, spinal stenosis, spine lesions, congenital disabilities, etc., are some causes. If left untreated, the symptoms may worsen.