Failure to identify and treat a little-known spinal condition probably costs the NHS hundreds of millions a year, according to a leading consultant.
Cauda equina syndrome requires surgery within hours to avoid damage to the bowel, bladder, sexual organs and legs.
And it can be triggered by the most seemingly innocuous of body movements.
The Royal College of GPs says the condition is rare but every doctor should be on alert for it because of how serious it can be.
Red flag signs, include nerve pain down both legs as well as pins and needles or numbness around the bottom and inner thighs.
