Can my bladder and bowel movements be affected with sciatica?

In very rare but serious cases, severe compression of the nerves in the lower spine (called cauda equina syndrome) can affect bladder or bowel control, or cause numbness in the groin. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate hospital care. The good news is that most cases of sciatica do not reach this level. At MEX Physio, we always screen for these “red flag” symptoms during your assessment. If they’re not present, physiotherapy is safe, effective, and the right choice for your recovery.