Tethered (Spinal) Cord Syndrome
What is tethered (spinal) cord syndrome?
Tethered (spinal) cord syndrome is a stretch-induced functional disorder that is characterized by the fixation or tethering effect of tissue on the caudal spinal cord and caused by tissue attachments that limit movement of the cord within the spinal column. This effect causes increased tension of the spinal cord as a child ages and limits movement overall.What causes tethered (spinal) cord syndrome?
Tethered cord syndrome is either from a primary origin or an acquired (secondary) origin. Specifically, primary origins of the disease include congenital anomalies such as spina bifida and birth defects at the end of the spinal cord, as well as genetic factors and inelastic filum terminale in between the tip of the spinal cord and the tailbone. Secondary origins of the disease include tumors, infections, or scar tissue in the spinal cord. In addition, some activities which flex or extend the lower spinal column can worsen the condition.What are the symptoms of tethered (spinal) cord syndrome?
The specific symptoms and severity of tethered cord syndrome vary from one individual to another. In pediatric cases, the associated symptoms include:- Cutaneous tufts of hair and skin tags
- Lower back pain
- Leg pain or numbness
- Difficulty walking
- Foot and spinal deformities
- Difficulties with bladder and bowel control
- Scoliosis