you don't notice when you need to poo or can't control when you poo – and this isn't normal for youĬauda equina syndrome requires emergency hospital admission and may require emergency surgery, because the longer it goes untreated, the greater the chance it will lead to permanent paralysis and incontinence.

finding it hard to start peeing, can't pee or can't control when you pee – and this isn't normal for you.

numbness around or under your genitals, or around your anus.weakness or numbness in both legs that is severe or getting worse.Cauda equina syndromeĬauda equina syndrome is a rare and severe type of spinal stenosis where all of the nerves in the lower back suddenly become severely compressed. As you get older, the bones and tissues that make up the spine can become worn down, which can lead to a narrowing of the spinal column. Most cases of spinal stenosis occur in older people. This can make walking difficult and painful. The main symptoms of spinal stenosis are pain, numbness, weakness and a tingling sensation in one or both legs. Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space around the spinal cord (the spinal column) narrows, compressing a section of nerve tissue. Surgery will only be recommended if you're healthy enough to withstand the effects of the anaesthetic and the surgery. Surgery around 4 months after symptoms start is seen by some as the right time for the best results and recovery. Surgery may become likely if difficult symptoms last up to 2 months.

Lumbar decompression surgery may also be considered if you experience serious side effects when taking medications that affect your ability to work. Local anaesthetic and steroids are injected to help reduce swelling and inflammation. Spinal injection therapy is a course of spinal injections that can be used in combination with other therapies, such as physiotherapy. Non-surgical treatments include painkillers, physiotherapy and spinal injection therapy. Lumbar decompression surgery is usually only considered if non-surgical treatments for your lower spine haven't worked and symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

L5 s1 disc desiccation