Compensation for Accommodation Costs due to Cauda Equina Syndrome
An individual suffering from cauda equina syndrome may require significant changes to be made to their home in order to function on a daily basis. They may even need to move to a new property. If such a dramatic outcome is due to poor medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for these costs.
The impact of cauda equina syndrome
A patient who is left with complete cauda equina syndrome may suffer from some or all of the following permanent physical problems:
- Bowel incontinence
- Bladder incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Loss of mobility
All these symptoms can make life difficult and distressing in the extreme, impacting on a person's capacity to work, travel, socialise, bring up children and function independently. It is the final symptom, however, that may require significant changes to the person's home.
Accommodation needs
Cauda equina syndrome, if not diagnosed and treated as a matter of emergency, can cause weakness and loss of feeling in the legs as well as foot drop, meaning that the ability to flex the ankle has been lost. The result of these physical problems can mean that the individual may be dependent on a stick or a wheelchair. It can also, inevitably, make it extremely difficult for the person to move safely around their own home.
As a result, it may be necessary for the individual to carry out several alterations to their home, such as creating a downstairs toilet and bedroom. It may be necessary for them to move to an entirely different property in order to access accommodation entirely on the ground floor.
The costs associated with this level of need can, understandably, be significant. If such an outcome is regarded as the result of poor medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation to cover these costs.
Medical negligence
Cauda equina syndrome is often a medical emergency. If the patient's symptoms of lower back and leg pain along with altered urinary experience or saddle numbness are misdiagnosed, it can lead to a delay in accessing surgery. This can prove catastrophic. If the patient's symptoms subsequently deteriorate prior to surgery, they may be left with permanent disability. Whereas an earlier diagnosis may have facilitated a recovery of function.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are faced with the impact of the appalling symptoms of cauda equina syndrome due to medical delays, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We have extensive expertise in supporting compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome due to medical failings and one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors will be very happy to talk to you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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