Cauda Equina Syndrome

If CES has a fast onset, the patient should seek emergency care. Surgery may be required to avoid permanent sexual dysfunction, loss of bowel and/or bladder control, and in some cases, paralysis of the legs.

If the onset of CES is gradual, then a non-surgical approach such as chiropractic care may be appropriate. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to identify and diagnose CES, but chiropractors usually see these patients long after the initial symptoms since most patients go directly to the ER due to their severity. However, a team of healthcare providers comprising of chiropractors, primary care physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and/or mental health counselors can manage LBP and other residual problems associated with CES. As with all conditions that result in permanent impairment, those afflicted often need to manage symptoms to obtain an optimum quality of life that chiropractic care can greatly facilitate.