Like sciatica, Spinal Stenosis is an issue which presents as a leg pain.
Mostly this is pain in both legs, usually worse when standing or walking and limits walking distance or endurance.
It usually occurs later in life and is the result of degenerative/wear and tear changes in the spine, which cause narrowing of the spinal canal and consequentially choaking of the spinal cord and fine blood vessels.
Spinal stenosis, along with back pain is one of the leading causes of disability in older adults and with the aging population is an increasing problem, which is often misdiagnosed and mistreated.
Patients may begin to notice that they are able to stand or walk shorter and shorter distances without resting. The legs fatigue, burn or ache and symptoms generally ease quickly with rest. Pain, burning, tingling, weakness, and fatigue can be felt in the legs, low back and buttocks.
The results is a less active lifestyle and can lead to other health issues associated with a sedentary life.
Traditionally treatment has been spinal injections or surgery. Whilst these options may become necessary, they are not always the best first option plus they can come with significant risk and are not always successful.
The best course is early diagnosis and intervention. Manual care and a specific tailored exercise program can offer significant relief and restore function, with almost no risk.