When to seek help
Some changes need prompt attention
Emergency assessment
New difficulty urinating, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin, buttocks or genital/saddle area can signal serious nerve compression. Seek emergency medical assessment rather than waiting to finish this course.
Changes to discuss promptly
New or worsening weakness, loss of hand coordination or difficulty walking should prompt contact with a clinician. The course cannot assess urgency in your individual case.
If you are unsure how urgently to seek help, contact your treating team or an urgent medical service. This page cannot list every concerning symptom.
Patient references
AANS: Cauda equina syndrome ↗
AAOS: Cervical spinal cord compression ↗
References checked October 19, 2026. Educational information only.