About Tethered Cord Syndrome

What is Tethered Cord Syndrome?

Tethered Cord Syndrome (TCS) is a neurological disorder caused by the spinal cord becoming abnormally attached to the surrounding tissue. This attachment can cause the spinal cord to become stretched, leading to a variety of symptoms, including lower back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. In some cases, it can also lead to bladder and bowel dysfunction. Treatment for TCS typically involves surgery to release the attachment and relieve the symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Tethered Cord Syndrome?

Symptoms of Tethered Cord Syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include:

- Low back pain
- Pain, numbness, or Weakness in the legs
- Abnormal gait
- Scoliosis
- Urinary incontinence
- Bowel incontinence
- Abnormal sensations in the legs
- Abnormal growth of the lower extremities
- Abnormal curvature of the spine
- Abnormal positioning of the spinal cord
- Abnormal positioning of the tailbone

What are the causes of Tethered Cord Syndrome?

Tethered Cord Syndrome is caused by a number of factors, including:

1. Spinal abnormalities such as spina bifida, lipomyelomeningocele, and diastematomyelia.

2. Scar tissue from previous spinal surgeries.

3. Tumors or cysts in the spinal cord.

4. Abnormal development of the spinal cord.

5. Abnormal attachment of the spinal cord to the spine.

6. Abnormal growth of the spinal cord.

7. Abnormalities in the vertebrae or ligaments of the spine.

What are the treatments for Tethered Cord Syndrome?

Treatment for tethered cord syndrome depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. Treatment options may include:

1. Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for tethered cord syndrome. The goal of surgery is to release the tension on the spinal cord and to prevent further damage.

2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area.

3. Medication: Medication may be prescribed to help manage pain and other symptoms associated with tethered cord syndrome.

4. Bracing: Bracing may be used to help support the spine and reduce the tension on the spinal cord.

5. Alternative Therapies: Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care may be used to help manage pain and other symptoms associated

What are the risk factors for Tethered Cord Syndrome?

The primary risk factor for Tethered Cord Syndrome is a history of spinal surgery or trauma. Other risk factors include spina bifida, spinal tumors, diastematomyelia (a condition in which the spinal cord is split into two parts), and certain genetic disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Is there a cure/medications for Tethered Cord Syndrome?

There is no cure for tethered cord syndrome, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These treatments may include medications to reduce pain, physical therapy to improve mobility, and surgery to release the tethering.