What is Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) and how is it caused?

Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) is a condition where spinal nerves at the tail end of the spinal cord are compressed, potentially affecting bladder and bowel function and sensation. In Tara Stovold's case, it was caused by a fall that compressed nerves.

How did a fall while doing laundry lead to paralysis?

Tara Stovold slipped while bringing laundry in from the rain, which caused a disc in her back to blow out, crushing the nerves at the cauda equina level. Prolonged nerve compression led to severe nerve damage and paralysis.

What are the consequences of delayed CES treatment?

The longer CES goes untreated, the greater the chance of permanent paralysis and incontinence. In Tara's case, an initial misdiagnosis delayed critical treatment within the 24-48 hour emergency window, contributing to her permanent paralysis.

Home / Health / Mum paralysed by rare spinal condition after fall

Mum paralysed by rare spinal condition after fall

10 Feb

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Summary

A fall while bringing laundry in from the rain caused paralysis.
Initial misdiagnosis delayed critical treatment for CES.
The mum now advocates for self-awareness of medical conditions.

Mum paralysed by rare spinal condition after fall

Tara Stovold's life was irrevocably altered in July 2025 when a simple slip on wet decking while bringing in laundry led to permanent paralysis. What began as a painful fall, initially thought to be a broken coccyx, escalated when she developed Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES). This serious condition involves compression of spinal nerves and requires urgent treatment to prevent lasting damage.

Following her initial misdiagnosis, Tara experienced a worsening of symptoms, including numbness and incontinence, before CES was identified in August 2025. Despite multiple surgeries in August and September 2025, she was left paralysed and with permanent loss of bladder and bowel function. Tara is now fundraising for an accessible home and specialist wheelchair, while also bravely sharing her story to raise awareness of CES and encourage others to advocate for their health.

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