@wilcy I think this is different for every patient and how advanced the stenosis is. I was able to walk with cervical stenosis, and I didn't have space left around my spinal cord. I had my decompression surgery before permanent damage began. I was getting muscle spasms that shifted my vertebrae around, and when that happened, I had an uneven gait, but I still could walk. When my physical therapist realigned my neck, I walked normally again. If the spinal cord compression gets severe, it can cause permament damage to the spinal cord, and that usually shows up on an MRI.

I have no pain only numbness in fingers and toes. Walking for the most part is not a problem. I try to exercise 3-4 times a week

I have spinal stenosis and can walk slowly, mostly with a slight limp for about 10-15 minutes but have to stop and sit or take the weight off my feet by hanging on a shopping cart. The stamina is less when walking.