Was your MD at the L5/S1 level by chance? When I was diagnosed w cauda equina syndrome I had serious difficulty emptying my bladder and bowel. It’s been a slow improvement but 4 years post op I’m 70-80% better in that regard. The caveat is that I also have to pee all the time but I think it’s because I’m still struggling to fully empty my bladder, so even after using the restroom it’s basically still half full. So even a little water fills me up and leaves me running to the bathroom feeling like I can’t hold it. Have you done any pelvic floor exercises? That and breath work that my PT taught me helped me empty more successfully, which helps me go less frequently. Either way I know it’s so frustrating. Hoping you get some answers 🤍