Pain in front top portion of legs from knees up after walking relieved when sitting. had surgery for spinal stenosis 15 months ago with relief.

See details: pain in that area can originate in the lower back or hips and rarely the knees. With your history, the lower back is the likely cause.

Muscle strain: Male just over one year post-surgery for spinal stenosis has bilateral pain in quads w. walking. Quads are major muscles supporting upright posture & likely deconditioned from the procedure. Aquatherapy & tai chi might benefit muscle tonification. Massage for muscle spasm post-exercise. Vertebral neural impingement & pain is usually greatest while seated, less while standing & least while lying.