Born with it, diagnosed later: How tethered cord syndrome can reveal itself as a child grows
Tethered cord syndrome is a condition that is present at birth, but symptoms may not appear until a child grows. As tension on the spinal cord increases, it can begin to affect nerve function.
As part of our KSAT Community partnership, University Health explains how subtle signs — including a lower-back dimple, bladder or bowel problems, scoliosis, changes in walking or unexplained pain — can sometimes point to an often-overlooked neurological condition.
“Tethered cord is a congenital condition, which means you’re born with it,” said Dr. Izabela Tarasiewicz, a pediatric neurosurgeon with University Health. “As you move, as you grow, and as you do flexion, extension, which we do daily, you pull on your nerves and you injure your nerves.”
Read more to learn how early recognition can make a difference, or watch our Medical Minute video featuring Dr. Tarasiewicz for quick expert insight into the signs, diagnosis and treatment of tethered cord syndrome.
