What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

Symptoms may travel from the lower back into the buttock, thigh or leg. Walking or standing can bring on aching, burning, weakness or a heavy feeling, while sitting or leaning forward may ease it. Some people notice difficulty walking as far as before, leg numbness and tingling, or symptoms in both legs. The exact pattern depends on which nerves are crowded and how much they are irritated.

Record which positions trigger symptoms and whether sitting changes them. Keep gently active within your limits, but avoid pushing through increasing leg weakness or numbness. Physiotherapy may address posture, mobility, trunk strength and walking tolerance. A clinician may discuss an epidural steroid injection or surgery such as laminectomy when symptoms remain disabling; spinal fusion is considered only for selected spinal problems.

Arrange assessment for persistent walking limitation, spreading leg symptoms, worsening pain or weakness. Seek emergency care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the inner thighs or genitals, rapidly worsening weakness, or inability to walk. These signs can indicate serious pressure on the nerves.

Which nerves appear affected by my symptoms? Is my walking pattern safe? What exercises or activity changes should I try? When would an injection, laminectomy or spinal fusion be considered?