Coccyx (The Tailbone)

There are three small, loosely fused bones that control weight bearing when sitting down. The bones are also important for various ligaments and tendons throughout the pelvic area. 

Anterior cord syndrome

Anterior cord syndrome is caused by an impact that damages the artery that runs along the front of the spinal cord. This is usually done by a fragment of a bone or a slipped disc. This injury causes loss of strength below the point of injury and loss of temperature and pain sensations. However, sensations, such as vibration and position awareness, are preserved and some movement may be able to be restored.

Central cord syndrome

This is an injury to the centre of the spinal cord that prevents the brain from sending information to the rest of the body. The main effects of central cord syndrome are loss of arm functionality and reduced functionality in the legs; however, it is occasionally possible to recover and gradually improve function in the legs if it is very incomplete. Bladder and bowel control can also be lost if damage is severe.   

Posterior cord syndrome

This rare syndrome is an injury to the artery at the back of the spinal cord that can cause difficulties in coordination and the loss of deep touch, vibration and position sensations. However, strength is preserved along with pain and temperature sensations. 

Brown-Sequard syndrome

This is a rare injury to one side of the spinal cord, which causes inverted complications. For instance, one side of the body below the region of the spine injured can completely lose movement but retain sensations of pain and temperature, while on the other side, the opposite is true.  

Cauda equina syndrome

This is an injury to the group of nerves at the base of the spine usually caused by trauma that compresses the nerves, resulting in back pain. Cauda equina syndrome can also result in partial or complete loss of movement and sensation, as well as bladder and bowel dysfunction. 

If the nerves have not been severely damaged, they may regrow, restoring some movement to the body.