Since any compression of the spinal nerves at the end of the spinal cord can lead to unchanging symptoms of cauda equina. Cauda equine always becomes a medical emergency, and when the correct diagnosis has been determined as a result of specialized testing, the treatment to resolve the problem can get underway.

Treatment of Cauda Equina.

a). Surgical decompression of the affected spinal nerves is initiated.

b). Antibiotics will be given if there is any sign of infection in the lumbar region of the spinal cord.

c). If the compression of the nerves has been caused by a spinal tumor, then after the spinal nerves have been successfully decompressed, radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be required.

For the longer term treatment of cauda equine, depending upon any symptoms which may persist, then medicine will be prescribed to reduce pain, back supports may be necessary for the patient and perhaps the use of catheters to deal with any urinary problem.

This kind of treatment will continue until the patient’s spinal nerves and muscle use are both fully recovered.

Prevention of Cauda Equina.

Since the syndrome is totally unpredictable then the onset of the condition is not preventable. But in cases where the situation has been caused by the use of illegal drugs injected intravenously, the of course it is preventable, by simply not using illegal substances.

After Treatment, What About the Patient?

The complete recovery of the patient will depend entirely on the degree of nerve damage sustained by the lower spinal cord, and the length of time the nerves were compressed, the longer the time, the longer the time period for full recovery.

A Summary of Cauda Equina Syndrome.

-          The syndrome results from abnormal compression of the spinal nerves at the end of the spinal cord, in the lumbar region of the back. It is caused  by pinching or irritation of the nerves in this region.

-          The symptoms include, sciatica, weakness in the legs, tingling and numbness of the buttocks, and loss of bladder and/or bowel control.

-          The diagnosis is based on the symptoms exhibited, and confirmation is given as a result of radiology and neurologic testing.

-          It is always considered to be an emergency requiring immediate surgery to relieve the compression on the spinal nerves.

-          The extent of the damage to the lower end of the spinal cord will determine the recovery time of the patient.

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