The spine consists of 27 bones, not including those in the tail. Disks are located between the bones of the spine and serve as shock absorbers. Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is caused by compression of the nerve roots passing from the lower back toward the tail at the level of the lumbosacral junction.
If the stenosis is located on the lower part of the spinal cord it is called lumbar spinal stenosis. Stenosis in the upper part of the spinal cord is called cervical spinal stenosis. While spinal stenosis can be found in any part of the spine, the lumbar and cervical areas are the most commonly affected.
Pressure to or damage of the nerves within the spinal canal in the junction area between the lumbar and sacral vertebrae (also called the cauda equine) due to narrowing of spinal canal can lead to this condition, also known as the cauda equina syndrome.
This common condition in dogs can be congenital (present at birth) or an acquired condition (develops later in life).
Symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include
Lameness
Pain in lumber and sacral regions
Pelvic limb weakness and muscle wasting
Weakness or paralysis of tail
Abnormal tail carriage
Urine and fecal incontinence (in some animals)
