Cauda Equina Syndrome Lower Limb Dysfunction

Cauda equina syndrome can result in long-term lower limb dysfunction, particularly if it is not treated in a reasonable amount of time.

Cauda equina nerve compression

The cauda equina nerves can be found at the bottom of the spine. They are responsible for a number of things, including sensation and function to the lower limbs, pelvic organs and saddle area (buttocks, perineum and genitalia).

If something compresses the nerves – such as a slipped disc – they will be harmed. When nerves are damaged their ability to function normally will be affected. This will lead to physical problems, including lower limb dysfunction.

More specifically, cauda equina syndrome can cause foot drop, poor reflexes in the legs, weakness in the legs, numbness in the legs and chronic pain in the legs.

There are also other symptoms associated with cauda equina syndrome, including bladder dysfunction and numbness in the saddle area.

Long-term lower limb dysfunction

Whatever is compressing the nerves needs to be medically addressed as a matter of urgency. Otherwise the nerves will experience extensive injury, after which medical treatment will prove to be largely ineffective.

If medical treatment is not given in time, the symptoms that a patient has developed will not improve. In other words, their neurological complications will be permanent.

This can be severely disabling for the individual concerned. He/she may have long-term foot drop, leg weakness, pain and numbness. All this can greatly reduce mobility, and the patient may have to use walking aids or a wheelchair for the rest of their lives.

Claiming for cauda equina disability

If you have been left disabled because of cauda equina syndrome, you need to talk to a solicitor about the options available to you. Cauda equina syndrome has a high medico-legal profile and regularly leads to successful medical negligence claims being made.

You will be able to make a claim if your injuries occurred as a result of substandard medical care. Indeed, cauda equina syndrome is often subject to a delay in diagnosis and treatment because medical practitioners fail to recognise the condition, or fail to appreciate the urgency with which treatment is required.

Any patient who is left with life-changing injuries because of medical blunders will be entitled to claim compensation. This will not give you your health back, but it will provide you with financial support. This will be extremely useful, particularly if you are unable to work because of your injuries.

Contact us today

For more information on claiming compensation, contact us today.

Make A Free Cauda Equina Claim Enquiry

Please call us free on 0800 234 3300, from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our Free Online Enquiry for a no cost, no obligation opinion.

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