Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES)

Introduction

Most back pain cases settle quickly, but can be very painful initially. This may require modification of your everyday activities for a couple of days.

If any of the following occur in the context of back pain, then you should attend the Emergency Department (A&E) at the Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy for review to exclude serious spinal conditions:

Warning signs

If you have severe pain which is getting worse over several weeks, or if you are unwell with back pain, you should consult your Doctor. The following symptoms are very rare, but if you suddenly develop any of them, you should consult a Doctor straightaway.

• Back pain with Fever (temperature) of 38˚C or more.

Cauda Equina Syndrome warning signs

Many patients have a combination of back pain, leg pain, leg numbness and weakness. These symptoms can be distressing, but do not necessarily require emergency medical attention.

A rare, but serious back condition, Cauda Equina Syndrome, can lead to permanent damage or disability and will need to be seen by an Emergency Specialist Spinal Team. Some warning signs of Cauda Equina Syndrome are as follows:

• Loss of feeling/pins and needles between your inner thighs or genitals
• Numbness in or around your back passage or buttocks
• Altered feeling when using toilet paper to wipe yourself
• Increasing difficulty when you try to urinate
• Increasing difficulty when you try to stop or control your flow of urine
• Loss of sensation when you pass urine
• Leaking urine or recent need to use pads
• Not knowing when your bladder is either full or empty
• Inability to stop a bowel movement or leaking
• Loss of sensation when you pass a bowel motion
• Change in ability to achieve an erection or ejaculate
• Loss of sensation in genitals during sexual intercourse

Any one or combination of these seek medical help immediately

Worries or concerns

Should you have any worries or concerns, please contact your GP during working hours or contact NHS24 on 111 out of working hours.