This Group was formed for support and information for families dealing with LMC-TCS and other forms of tethered spinal cords.

Some of the more common reasons for a spinal cord to be tethered is from a fatty mass that extends from under the skin, through the spine itself and then into the spinal cord, called a lipomyelomeningocele (LMC) or from a filum that is too tight/fatty to allow normal movement. Other reasons include tethering from scar tissue from previous surgery to correct an open Spina Bifida defect, or from dermal sinus tracts (dimples that reach from surface of skin into the spinal cord).

The symptoms of tethered cord can vary. One common problem is difficulty walking or weakness in the legs or feet which may cause the leg to drag or the feet to turn in or out. Pain in the back or legs is also common. Other changes include numbness or tingling, a change in bladder or bowel function such as wetness between catheterizations, failure to toilet train at a normal age or regression in a previously toilet trained child, scoliosis (curved spine), "tight" or stiff legs, tenderness over the spine or previous scar, and a decrease in activity. If your child develops symptoms such as these, they should be evaluated for the possibility of a tethered cord.

Tethered cord can happen alone, or it can occur as part of a group of anomalies such as with Currarino Triad, VACTERLS Association, and Caudal Regression/Sacral Agenesis. TC is often found along with Imperforate Anus and Cloacal malformations.

Come on in, pull up a chair, pour a cup tea and join in!

Welcome :)