What Is Tethered Cord Syndrome? How It Affects Your Child's Development

TCS is often caused by an abnormality in the vertebrae that causes the spinal cord to become trapped between the bones of the spine. This can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.

This causes symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and loss of coordination.

If left untreated, tethered cord syndrome can lead to permanent damage to the nerves and muscles of the body. Symptoms usually begin during infancy or early childhood, although they can occur at any age.

Symptoms of tethered cord syndrome include:

A child with tethered cord syndrome will often present with symptoms such as: • Difficulty walking • Weakness in one leg • Poor coordination

Causes of tethered cord syndrome:

Tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is a rare congenital disorder that occurs when the spinal cord is not properly developed during fetal development. This results in the spinal cord being tethered to something else, usually the vertebral column. TCS affects approximately 1 out of every 2,000 children born alive.

Treatment options for tethered cord syndrome:

There are several treatment options available for people with tethered cord syndrome. These treatments vary based on the severity of symptoms and the age of the child. Most commonly, doctors will recommend surgery to untether the spinal cord. Surgery involves removing the tethering structure and reconnecting the spinal cord to the spine.

This causes symptoms such as back pain, leg weakness, numbness, tingling, bowel problems, headaches, and more. Learn about tethered cord syndrome and how it affects children.

Tethered cord syndrome occurs when the spinal cord is not properly connected to the spine. This can happen because of an injury to the spine or during birth. If the spinal cord is not connected to the spine, it becomes tethered to something else. This can cause symptoms such as back pain and leg weakness.