Cauda equina syndrome is sometimes caused by a herniated disc that breaks open
(ruptures) into the center of the spinal canal and produces a fragment large enough to
compress the entire cauda equina. Other problems with the bones of the spine may also
cause pressure on this nerve area.
Coccydynia
Coccydynia is a medical term meaning pain in the coccyx or tailbone area, usually
brought on by sitting. In many cases the exact cause is not known.
Coccydynia is often reported following a fall or after childbirth. In some cases, persistent
pressure from activities like bicycling may cause the onset of coccyx pain. Coccydynia
due to these causes usually is not permanent, but it may become very persistent and
chronic if not controlled. Activities that put pressure on the affected area are bicycling,
horseback riding, and other activities such as increased sitting that put direct stress on
the coccyx. Rarely, coccydynia may be due to the undiagnosed presence of a tumor near
the coccyx.
Infections of the spine
Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections of the spine are rare. The medical term for infection of a bone is
“osteomyelitis.” Osteomyelitis is usually spread through the blood stream. There is often
fever and pain. Diagnosis may be difficult as access to the site of infection is limited.
Tuberculous osteomyelitis
Tuberculosis bacteria reach the spine mostly through the blood stream. The spine is
commonly involved. There may be damage to the bodies of two neighboring vertebrae
leading to vertebral collapse and acute angulation of the spine. Symptoms of malaise,
fever and night sweats occur. Diagnosis is based on the history, clinical findings and X-
rays and confirmed by taking a blood or pus sample and demonstrating the presence of
tubercle bacilli.