Tethered Spinal Cord vs. Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): Understanding the Difference

Tethered spinal cord and arteriovenous malformation (AVM) are not the same conditions.

Tethered spinal cord is a condition in which the spinal cord is attached to the tissues surrounding it, preventing it from moving freely. This can cause a variety of problems, including back pain, leg pain, incontinence, and difficulty walking.

AVM is a condition in which there is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins. This can cause a variety of problems, depending on the location of the AVM. For example, an AVM in the brain can cause seizures, headaches, and vision problems. An AVM in the spine can cause back pain, leg pain, and incontinence.

While tethered spinal cord and AVM can both cause back pain and leg pain, they are two distinct conditions with different causes and treatments.