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Tethered Spinal Cord Symptoms

A normal, healthy spine is able to move and flex with ease. A tethered spine, however, extends lower than a normal spine all the way to the sacrum (think tail bone). This greatly restricts the spine's movements and can lead to neurological damage. Not all people will show symptoms of this condition, but there are some common symptoms such as lower back pain, fatigue and bladder infections that should not be ignored.

  1. History

    • A tethered spinal cord is usually caused by a congenital condition that develops within the first four to six weeks after conception. The spinal cord grows from the first cervical vertebrae to the distal end of the sacrum. A normal spine stops growing near the upper portion of the lumbar region of the back and only nerves grow down through the spinal canal to the sacrum. When the spine extends all the way to the sacrum it is called tethered, because it is not free to move like a normal spine.

    Pain

    • Lower back pain is a symptom of a tethered spine. Physical activity will cause the pain to worsen. The cessation of movement will reduce the pain.

    Bladder or Bowel Problems

    • Frequent bladder infections or incontinence are symptoms of a tethered spine. Incontinence is a symptom of a severe worsening of the condition and should be immediately brought to the attention of a physician.

    Weak or Numb Legs

    • People with tethered spines will often experience weakness in their legs and feet. If the weakness gets worse, this indicates the tethering is progressing and the sufferer should see their physician.

    Lower Back Marker

    • People with a tethered spine will often have a marker on their low back that may resemble a dimple or be a patch of hair or redness. These are called cutaneous markers.

    Treatment

    • A tethered spine is usually identified with an MRI test. Any signs of deterioration such as changes in leg strength or incontinence indicate a need for surgery. Surgery is then used to treat the condition, though sometimes the spine grows back and more surgeries are needed. Often this occurs in childhood, but sometimes adults will not need surgery until their 50s. Typically, laminectomy surgery is administered to get to the spine and then any scar tissue or fat is removed to de-tether the spinal cord. Recovery may take as little as a few weeks until a person is able to do normal activities again, though the time required for regaining muscle strength will vary.

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