Tethered cord syndrome happens when the spinal cord is pulled tight like a rubber band at the lower end. Instead of hanging loose and moving freely with growth, it stays stuck to the bottom of the spinal canal. Over months or years the steady tug damages nerves and shows up in everyday ways. Back pain is the first red flag most families notice. A child who used to sit on the floor now wants to stand after five minutes, or a teen complains of a dull ache right above the tail-bone that gets worse during sports. The pain often feels... Learn more