Cauda Equina Syndrome compensation claims advice

Cauda Equina Syndrome is a neurological condition that is usually classed as a surgical emergency. It is rare; but is a very serious condition that is caused by pressure on the nerves in the lumbar spine and / or a narrowing of the spinal canal.

Treatment is required very quickly to relieve or stop the pressure on the nerves. If treatment is not sought quickly enough, this can lead to the patient suffering paralysis, neurological problems, loss of bladder and bowel control, and (sometimes lifelong) physical impairment.

The pressure on the spine can be caused for different reasons:

• Inflammatory conditions of the spine;
• Infections in the spinal canal;
• Spinal tumours;
• Trauma to the lumbar spine;
• A spinal condition that can compress nerves in the lower back;
• Injury that penetrates the lower back.

The symptoms can include:

• Server back pain;
• Numbness, pain or weakness in both legs;
• Bladder or bowel problems;
• Loss of feeling in in the lower part of your body.

Delay in diagnoses

Failure to recognise the symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome can lead to a delay in diagnoses. As the condition is rare, it can often be misdiagnosed as a lower back pain condition. However, doctors should be aware of the symptoms and not delay in providing sufficient medical treatment for it.

Due to the speed in which Cauda Equina Syndrome can develop, it’s critical that it’s recognised and dealt with in a short space of time. Failure to treat the condition can have serious consequences such as paralysis and neurological problems.

Both physical and emotional injuries can be sustained from Cauda Equina Syndrome going misdiagnosed and left untreated. These problems can have a severe impact on a person’s life by leaving them disabled and unable to live their life as they used to. This can also prevent them from returning to work and therefore suffer potentially lifelong loss of earnings.

Can you claim?

You can claim for general damages due to the pain and suffering from a delayed diagnoses and the physical and psychological effects that will have been caused from the delay. You may also be able to claim for special damages if you have had to seek additional care, or are unable to return to work because of the trauma and so have faced a loss of earning.

It usually comes down to whether the symptoms presented to a medical professional ought to have allowed them to diagnose the condition. These claims are very difficult to win, but we have won them in the past, and our expertise is available for anyone who needs our help.