A shocking incident at a gym in Wales left a 35-year-old woman on the brink of paralysis after lifting just half of her usual weights during a CrossFit class. Jodie Wickers, a regular gym-goer accustomed to deadlifting 120kg, experienced a sharp pain in her back while attempting 60kg-weighted deadlifts. Despite the discomfort, she continued her workouts for a week until the pain became unbearable, prompting her to seek medical attention.
After consulting with her GP and undergoing an MRI scan, Jodie received the alarming diagnosis of a slipped disc leading to cauda equina syndrome (CES), a rare and severe spinal condition. This condition, which singer Duncan James from Blue recently battled, involves the compression of nerves at the base of the spinal cord. Symptoms can include back pain, numbness in the pelvic region, loss of bladder and bowel control, sexual dysfunction, and leg paralysis.
By the time Jodie went in for her scan, she was experiencing difficulty walking and facing issues with bowel and bladder control, such as constipation. Subsequently, she underwent emergency surgery to alleviate the pressure on her nerves but was left with nerve damage and weakness in her legs. This life-altering injury, suffered in November, has left Jodie reliant on a walking stick and determined to raise awareness about CES, particularly among weightlifters.
Reflecting on the incident, Jodie shared her experience of initially disregarding the pain and attempting to push through it due to her regular gym routine. However, as her symptoms worsened, she realized the severity of the situation and the importance of seeking prompt medical care. Post-surgery, Jodie faces challenges like leg weakness and sciatica, limiting her mobility and requiring the daily use of a walking stick.
The long-term outlook for Jodie remains uncertain, with the possibility of nerve recovery unknown. Despite the difficulties she now faces, she hopes to caution others about the risks associated with weightlifting and the crucial need to recognise CES symptoms. CrossFit, where the incident occurred, has been approached for comment but has not yet responded.
Cauda equina syndrome, a rare condition affecting the nerves in the lower back, can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. Emergency hospital admission and possibly surgery are usually required to prevent permanent paralysis and incontinence. With symptoms such as sciatica, leg weakness or numbness, genital numbness, and bladder and bowel issues, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing CES.
Jodie’s harrowing experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly routine physical activities, urging individuals to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice promptly when experiencing unusual pain or symptoms. As she navigates her recovery journey, Jodie remains determined to spread awareness and cautionary advice to prevent others from falling victim to similar spinal injuries.