Spinal Stenosis

The spinal canal that carries the nerves narrows and irritates them, producing pain and numbness. Unlike a lumbar disc, it hurts more when you straighten your back.

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Spinal Stenosis

Q. My legs weaken when I walk and I keep having to rest. Why?

Walking narrows the spinal canal further and compresses the nerve. It eases with rest and returns when you walk on — that pattern is characteristic.

📝 Detailed Answer

While you walk, the back stays extended. For someone whose spinal canal is already narrowed, the nerve is compressed more at that moment and the legs become numb and weak. Sitting briefly or bending forward relieves it, and walking again brings the same thing back.

If the distance you can walk keeps shrinking, it is worth checking how far it has progressed. Rather than avoiding walking altogether, it is better to find the range that is comfortable now and move within it.

Expert Verified

Injun Eo

Director

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Page summary

Walking narrows the spinal canal further and compresses the nerve. It eases with rest and returns when you walk on — that pattern is characteristic.

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