Overview
Arthritis and thickened ligaments cause it.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Leg pain or numbness when walking, eased by sitting
Less common
- Back pain
When to get medical care
Call 911Bladder or bowel control loss, or numb groin.
Get care todayLeg weakness getting worse.
See a doctor soonPain limiting walking.
Causes
Aging, arthritis.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Over 50
Possible complications
Diagnosis
A clinician checks your back and legs.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- MRI:
Treatment
Stay active.
Self-care
- Walk in short bouts
- Try a stationary bike
- Physical therapy
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Manageable.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.