The cauda equina is responsible for the supply of nerves to the bladder, bowels, lower limbs and bottom.

Cauda equina syndrome is a rare but dangerous spinal condition caused when the nerves in the lower back – collectively known as the cauda equina - suddenly become severely compressed. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent incontinence and even paralysis.

Most cases of cauda equina syndrome occur in the over 60s, often caused by the bones and tissue that make up the spine wearing down and the spinal column narrowing as a result.

Nonetheless, cauda equina syndrome can affect all age groups and, if you are suffering from cauda equina symptoms, you should contact your GP straight away.

There are a number of cauda equina ‘red flags’, including:

• Loss of feeling between the legs or around the genitals
• Bladder or bowel issues – including incontinence or a loss of feeling
• Issues with sexual function

If you, or a loved one, develop cauda equina symptoms you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Thompsons Solicitors is there to  support you with a cauda equina claim if you have developed cauda equina syndrome because of surgical error, or if medical professionals have taken too long to make a cauda equina diagnosis, leading to significant spinal damage that could have been mitigated with early decompression.

If you have developed cauda equina syndrome as a result of surgical error, or it has worsened because of delayed diagnosis, you may be able to make a claim.

Our medical negligence specialists are here to help throughout the legal process – from advising you of the strength of your claim and seeking the relevant medical evidence, to preparing witness statements and negotiating on your behalf.

The amount of compensation you are awarded for your cauda equina claim will depend on the severity of the injury, and the impact it has had on your life. Our medical negligence experts can inform you of the likely value of your claim.

Yes there is. In most personal injury claims the time limit is three years from the date of injury or diagnosis. However, in medical negligence claims, the three-year time limit can start from when you reasonably judged that your injuries were caused by medical negligence or delayed diagnosis.

We advise anyone who thinks they might have developed cauda equina syndrome as a result of medical negligence to contact us as soon as possible to ensure the claim is launched within the time limit.

If you’ve developed cauda equina syndrome as a result of medical negligence, you can contact Thompsons Solicitors on 0800 0 224 224 or complete our free online Start a Claim form.

Our medical negligence specialists will gather evidence to establish the facts and will work with you to build a strong claim for compensation.