Cauda EquinaThe name of the structure translates into horse's tail, which is very appropriate. The tail-shape of the nerve mass gradually thins from a wide grouping of nerves to a single nerve exiting the center of the vertebral column at the final coccyx level. Cauda Equina Facts
The spinal
nerve roots
branch off from the spinal cord and continue through the spine exiting between the
vertebrae
at their designated levels. However, there is no spinal cord after the upper lumbar region, so the horse's tail takes its place as the central neurological structure. These are the nerve roots most often implicated in pinched nerve conditions in the lumbar spine, since they can be directly affected by both foraminal and central canal stenosis. The nerves in this region of the back are often blamed for many varied painful syndromes including common
lower back pain
and
sciatica.
These nerves are also extremely susceptible to
oxygen deprivation
from a regional process, since they are all bundled in a small area and can be affected en masse. Cauda Equina AnatomyThe nerve roots branch off the spinal cord where the cord ends, usually at level L1 or L2. The nerves descend together through the remainder of the spinal vertebrae, giving the appearance of a horse’s tail, hence the name of the structure. As they reach their designated level, they exit from the spinal column to supply the network of nerves serving a particular anatomical region. This grouping of neurological tissue gradually thins as the individual nerves leave the spine, creating a wedge shape which tapers from wider to thinner.Nerve Compression in the Horse’s TailPinched or compressed nerves in this region can create a medical emergency for the patient. This condition is known as cauda equina syndrome and usually requires immediate surgical correction in order to restore neurological function and prevent permanent nerve damage. This condition is usually the result of massive trauma to the lower spine and can leave longterm effects even if corrected immediately.Common symptoms include numbness in the buttocks and genitals, sexual dysfunction, paraplegia, incontinence and loss of bowel control. This condition is extremely serious and should be treated by a qualified hospital emergency unit immediately. Cauda Equina to Back Pain 10/31/07 Revised 1/20/12 |
Sensei Adam Rostocki
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