Cauda Equina Syndrome: Mobility Losses and Compensation
Partial or total loss of mobility can be a major part of cauda equina syndrome. If you are experiencing this debilitating outcome due to poor medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Mobility losses and the cauda equina nerves
Mobility losses are common in patients with cauda equina syndrome. As the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine become compressed, they lose their ability to function. Part of the role of these nerves is to pass messages of sensation and control between the brain and the lower body and damage to these nerves can result in numbness and weakness in the legs as well as loss of ankle reflexes.
It is possible for a cauda equina syndrome patient to suffer loss of mobility to the extent that they become dependent on crutches or a wheelchair.
The broader impact of this can be utterly life-changing. The individual may find that they can no longer work or are significantly restricted in the nature and extent of employment they can undertake. Their income can, therefore, be dramatically reduced.
They may also find it difficult to navigate their way around their own home, ultimately needing alternative, single-storey accommodation, as well as support in completing everyday tasks, both personal and practical. Former pastimes and sports may no longer be accessible to them.
Medical management of cauda equina syndrome
It is for these reasons and due to such appalling and severe disability, that cauda equina syndrome is recognised as a medical emergency.
Early diagnosis and surgery can allow the patient to recover lost nerve function before it becomes permanent.
A delay in either diagnosis or treatment, can, on the other hand, mean that the nerve function losses and the associated symptoms become permanent.
Where medical professionals are responsible for the delay in either diagnosis or treatment, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. A patient with the possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome might expect, at the least a thorough examination and advice as to the red flag symptoms. Where symptoms are present, it is likely that they would need a referral for an emergency MRI scan.
A failure by medical professionals to provide this level of care may be regarded as substandard care.
If the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome as a result, a compensation claim may be a helpful way forward.
Contact the specialists
Glynns Solicitors are specialists in medical negligence compensation claims, with extensive expertise in cauda equina syndrome.
Contact us today to talk to one of our team of experienced solicitor about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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