My Legs Feel Heavy When I Walk
Legs feeling heavy when walking can sometimes be stenosis, but is most often blood circulation problems caused by muscle swelling. Blood that goes down to the feet while walking cannot return upward and pools (stagnates).
Why Do Legs Feel Heavy When Walking?
Blood Circulation Problems from Muscle Swelling (Most Common)
When leg muscles are swollen or tense, blood vessels are compressed. Blood that goes down to the feet while walking cannot return upward and pools (stagnates), making legs feel heavy.
Spinal Stenosis
When the spinal canal narrows and nerves are compressed. Characteristic pattern: improves when bending forward, worsens when straightening.
Characteristic Patterns
- Legs feel heavy or numb after walking a certain distance
- Improves with rest, worsens when walking again
- Worsens with prolonged standing
Even If Diagnosed with Stenosis
Even if stenosis is visible on MRI, the actual cause of symptoms is often blood circulation problems from muscle swelling. In most cases, improving muscle circulation resolves the symptoms.
Improving Muscle Circulation Is Key
Improving circulation in swollen muscles allows blood to flow smoothly, increasing walking distance.
Restore Walking Ability with Circulation Treatment
- Circulation HD: Release adhesions around nerves, improve circulation
- Circulation PT: Lower back stabilization exercises, gait training