Paralysis and Cauda Equina Syndrome Compensation
Delayed surgery for cauda equina syndrome can leave an individual with paralysis in one or both legs. The person may be dependent on crutches or a wheelchair for the remainder of their life. Where this shocking outcome has been caused by negligent medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
The cauda equina nerves and the lower limbs
The cauda equina nerves, located at the base of the spine, are responsible for both the awareness of sensation in the lower limbs and for the initiation of movement in the lower limbs.
If these nerves are impacted by a local condition such as a herniated disc, which starts to press against them, their ability to function can be compromised. As the pressure increases, so the function decreases. The messages of sensation or movement no longer successfully pass between the lower body and the brain.
What starts as pain and tingling in one leg may spread to the other and may, over time, develop to complete loss of feeling and function. The individual may additionally suffer from foot drop where due to loss of ankle reflexes, causing the foot to drag, compromising mobility and safety.
Medical care of the cauda equina nerves
For this reason, early diagnosis and decompression surgery of cauda equina compression is essential. Every attempt should be made to ensure that the path from recognition of symptoms, to examination with an MRI scan, to surgery is as smooth, efficient and timely as possible.
If a delay occurs during this process, the patient's nerve compression may worsen and their loss of function increase.
If such a delay is due to negligent medical care, it would be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Medical negligence compensation claims
Compensation claims for medical negligence are intended to provide recompense to a patient for the pain, suffering, loss of function and financial losses they have suffered as a result of poor-quality care.
Where cauda equina compression is concerned, the extent to which a person is disabled can affect their capacity to earn a living and result in significant financial losses.
However, making a claim for compensation for cauda equina negligence is extremely complex and requires the skills and experience of a specialist lawyer.
Glynns Solicitors
Glynns is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with a team of solicitors all of whom are highly experienced in this field of law.
Contact us today if you or a loved one are struggling with the devastating consequences of cauda equina syndrome due to negligent medical care.
Contact us if you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of cauda equina syndrome due to negligent medical care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
