I have a bulging disc at l5 s1 impacting the nerve. lately ive been feeling sharp, shooting pain in my right thigh posterolaterally when i move my legs. i believe the sciatic is located here. could they be related?

They are almost definitely related and it's time to see a neurosurgeon NOW. Sounds now like significant impingement of nerve, and it is not unlikely that this will need surgical intervention. You'll need back x-rays and then likely also an MRI, but my gut tells me you are looking at back surgery in the next 6-12 months if not sooner. Get a referral from your PCP ASAP!

This may represent increased damage at the L5-S1 level. To objectify, imaging and perhaps EMG will be helpful. Surgery would be considered in presence of progressive weakness, muscle atrophy, progressive numbness, bladder dysfunction, and unremitting pain. An epidural steroid injection might help if radiculopathy is indeed present.