Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) Awareness Day has been held annually on 1st October since 2020, being established by Cauda Equina Champions Charity, the UK’s only CES charity. The mission of this day to raise awareness so people are aware of the red flag symptoms, encourage faster medical treatment to help reduce long term disability. The charity also aims to support patients, their partners, families and friends with living with CES.

Their last campaign in 2024 focused on the impact of CES on families and carers and the limited support provided after the hospital. It is noted that:

• Less than 5% of CES patients get discharged with the information they need from hospitals/clinics
• 69% of patients say that medical professionals still don’t understand CES
• 64% say it’s very difficult for family and friends to understand CES and issues post-surgery

The aims of Cauda Equina Champions Charity are:

• Reduce trauma and isolation after diagnosis
• To work alongside the NHS to promote positive recoveries and best patient outcomes
• Ensure that every case of cauda equina syndrome is recorded
• Facilitate the seamless triage of patients throughout their Cauda Equina experience
• Reduce delayed treatment and end unnecessary suffering

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?

CES is an emergency spinal issue. It is a rare but a serious medical condition involving the compression of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord. These nerves, collectively called the cauda equina (Latin for “horse’s tail” and can be commonly referred to as a “dog’s tail”), control movement and sensation in the legs, bladder, bowel, and sexual organs.

The compression of the nerves can happen from herniated disc, a spinal injury, tumour or an infection which can lead to permanent nerve damage if not treated quicky.

Key Symptoms (Red flags)

If you or someone experiences the following symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Severe lower back pain
• Sciatica (pain radiating down the legs)
• Numbness or tingling in the saddle area (inner thighs, buttocks, genitals)
• Urinary retention or incontinence
• Loss of bowel control
• Sexual dysfunction
• Leg weakness or difficulty walking

To diagnose CES, this has to be done by an MRI/CT scan, physical and neurological examinations. Due to the urgent nature of diagnosis, the surgery needs to be completed within 24-48 hours from diagnosis to relieve the pressure of the nerves. The longer this is left, the more likely that life changing injuries will be permanent and so time is of the essence when it comes to diagnosis and treatment. Some people can regain full function; however, others may have long lasting ailments such as urine incontinence, bowel incontinence, chronic pain and sexual dysfunction.

CES is a complex condition and requires careful management and consideration by medical professionals. Symptoms of CES can appear similar to other less serious conditions, such as sciatica but the big difference is that, if managed inappropriately, it can result in avoidable harm to patients that has a devastating impact on day to day life. Our clinical negligence team are experienced at pursuing claims regarding CES, including delay in carrying out MRI scanning and failure to carry out decompression surgery with sufficient urgency.

If you or a loved one has been affected by Cauda Equina Syndrome, we understand how life-changing this diagnosis can be. We’re here to help you explore your legal options and pursue the answers that you deserve.