A service evaluation of the management of patients with suspected cauda equina syndrome from an outpatient physiotherapy service in the United Kingdom.

Background: The expanding scope of physiotherapists worldwide has come with an increased responsibility to identify serious pathologies such as fracture, infection, tumour and cauda equina syndrome (CES). Guidelines recommend a low threshold for emergency MRI to avoid the potentially devastating consequences of CES, but a balanced approach is required to prevent excessive strain on emergency resources.

Aim: To evaluate the management of patients presenting to an outpatient physiotherapy service with suspected cauda equina syndrome.