Warning Signs Of Spinal Stenosis

Issues With Balance And Walking

Gait abnormalities and issues with balance are most common when spinal stenosis occurs in the neck, otherwise known as cervical spinal stenosis. When the condition occurs in the lower back, patients might have some problems with balance. However, they tend to present differently. Lumbar spinal stenosis is more likely to cause one or both legs to become painful and cramp when individuals stand in one area for long periods or walk around. 

Many patients report the pain eases partially or entirely when they sit down or bend forward, taking the pressure off their spine and legs. Some individuals might be able to walk short distances, but find they have problems with pain and balancing when they have to walk long distances. There might also be issues with walking if patients are dealing with numbness, as the loss of sensation can make it difficult to balance or interpret sensory information about the ground beneath them.