3 Minute Read

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a variant of spinal stenosis.

This condition results in significant compression of the nerves in the lower back, potentially causing permanent paralysis and incontinence. Although rare, it necessitates immediate hospitalisation and possibly urgent surgical intervention when it arises.

The risk of irreversible, severe outcomes increases the longer cauda equina syndrome remains unaddressed.

What are symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

According to the NHS, cauda equina warning signs include:

• Loss of feeling / pins and needles between your inner thighs or genitals
• Numbness in and around your back passage or buttocks
• Altered feeling when using toilet paper to wipe yourself
• Increasing difficulty when you try to urinate
• Increasing difficulty when your try to stop or control your flow of urine
• Loss of sensation when you pass urine
• Leaking urine, or a recent need to use pads
• Not knowing when your bladder is either full or empty
• Inability to stop bowel movement or leaking
• Loss of sensation when you pass a bowel motion
• Change in ability to achieve and erection or ejaculate
• Loss of sensation in genitals during sexual intercourse

What are the causes of cauda equina syndrome?

Many things can cause cauda equina syndrome to develop. Some common causes include:

• Herniated disc
• Tumour
• Infection
• Inflammation
• Fracture
• Impact injury
• Narrowing of the spinal canal

Can I claim compensation if I develop cauda equina syndrome?

In cases where the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is mismanaged or delayed, the most severe outcomes can include permanent paralysis and incontinence. These are potentially avoidable life-changing injuries if the right care had been given.

Doctors owe a duty of care to their patients, and when they fail to identify well-established symptoms of a serious, life-altering condition, they have not fulfilled that duty.

Cauda equina syndrome and medical negligence claims in Middlesbrough

If clinical negligence can be established, then the patient affected by cauda equina syndrome may be entitled to compensation.

They must initiate their claim within three years of becoming aware of the breach of duty. Given the complexity of such cases, which can extend over several years, it is advisable to commence the claims process without delay. This is especially crucial as a successful claim can significantly enhance their quality of life.

Our role as Middlesbrough & Redcar-based medical negligence solicitors

At Askews Solicitors, our team of experts specialises in medical negligence claims, particularly in cases like CES where misdiagnosis or delayed treatment can have life-altering effects.

We offer guidance and support through the complex legal process, aiming to secure the compensation and support necessary for a comfortable life post-diagnosis.

Speak with a cauda equina claims solicitor

Contact Us to arrange a free consultation with a medical negligence solicitor or visit Medical Negligence Claims to learn more about our services.