Recovering After Cauda Equina Syndrome

We are here to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and supported throughout your journey. If you have any questions, please speak with your doctor or the medical team.

What to Expect After Surgery or Hospital Treatment

Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a serious neurological condition requiring urgent medical treatment. If you’ve had

surgery or been treated in hospital, your recovery may take time and varies depending on the severity and duration of nerve compression.

You may still experience:

• Numbness or tingling in the legs or saddle area
• Weakness or reduced coordination in the lower limbs
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Back or leg pain.

These symptoms may improve gradually over weeks to months, but some people may have lasting changes. Recovery is often slower for bladder, bowel, and sexual functions than for movement or pain.

Recovering at Home

Here’s what you can do to support your recovery and improve your quality of life:

Follow-Up Appointments
Regular reviews with your spine specialist, neurologist, or GP are essential. Bring up any changes in symptoms.

Bladder and Bowel Care

• Keep a diary of urination and bowel movements.
• Use catheterisation or bowel programmes as instructed.
• Stay hydrated and eat a high-fibre diet.

Physical Rehabilitation

• Continue with physiotherapy to rebuild strength and mobility.
• Exercises should be low-impact and tailored to your condition.
• Occupational therapy may help with daily activities and independence.

Skin Care and Sensation

• Be cautious with hot surfaces and prolonged pressure if you have numb areas.
• Check your skin daily for sores or injuries.

Sexual Health

• Sexual dysfunction is common post-CES. Discuss options with your GP or specialist.
• Psychosexual therapy or medications may be helpful.

Emotional Support

• It’s normal to feel frustrated or anxious during recovery.
• Ask your doctor about counselling or support groups for spinal injury or neurological recovery.

Pain Management

Pain after CES may include nerve pain or mechanical back pain. Your doctor may recommend:

• Medications
  • Neuropathic pain meds (e.g., amitriptyline, gabapentin, pregabalin)
  • Over-the-counter pain relief (paracetamol, ibuprofen) if appropriate
• Physiotherapy
  • Exercise and guided movement can reduce pain and prevent stiffness.
• Heat/Cold Therapy
  • This should be used with caution, especially in areas of reduced sensation.
• Mind-Body Techniques
  • Relaxation, mindfulness, or gentle yoga (if approved) can help manage chronic pain.

When to Seek Medical Help

You should contact your doctor or return to hospital if you experience:

• Worsening bladder or bowel control
• New or increasing leg weakness
• Sudden return of saddle numbness or severe pain
• Signs of infection (e.g., fever, wound redness if post-op)
• Loss of coordination or difficulty walking that is getting worse.

Prompt review can prevent complications or further nerve damage.