cauda equina

(noun)

A bundle of nerve roots at the base of the spinal column.

Related Terms

Examples of cauda equina in the following topics:

  • Overview of the Spinal Cord

    • The cauda equina ("horse's tail") is the name for the collection of nerves in the vertebral column that extends beyond the cord.
    • The nerves that compose the cauda equina supply the pelvic organs and lower limbs, including motor innervation for the hips, knees, ankles, feet, and internal and external anal sphincters.
    • In addition, the cauda equina extends to sensory innervation of the perineum.

  • Sciatic Nerve Injury

    • When there is a tear in the annulus fibrosus, the nucleus pulposus (pulp) may extrude through the tear and press against spinal nerves within the spinal cord, cauda equina, or exiting nerve roots, causing inflammation, numbness, or excruciating pain.

  • Ventricles

    • CSF within the spinal cord can flow all the way down to the lumbar cistern at the end of the cord around the cauda equina.