CHRONIC SYMMETRICAL LEG NUMBNESS - HELP!!

[SF2223]

I'm a 32 year old male.  Ever since I starting a running routine a few years ago (which I stopped not long after), I have had chronic leg burning sensations, it feels neurologic, and I assume it has something to do with my lower back since it affects both legs equally.  I don't run anymore, but I still feel it when I sitting at my desk; my legs just kind of burn and have a cold sensation.  When I run, I will usually run fine but then I will suffer for several days intense burning/cold down both legs and particulary strong at the knees.  Needless to stay, I don't run anymore.   I am guessing a nerve is being pinched or something, and I am also guessing that week abdominal muscles might not be helping.  

I am frustrated because I want to lose some wieght but running which I love is very painful for me.  I also feel like my legs are stiff when I walk, like they don't bend as much as they should or there is just odd leg stiffness.  

What can I do? Do I need to just suffer through it while I build my core muscles?  MRI and other tests all been negative, except for a congenital pars defect, but I was not told that this condition is to blame.  Can I just continue to run despite these issues?

[ggreg]

Study up on diabetes, it can cause circulation problems in the legs and feet.  Until you said that, I was getting ready to tell you that poor circulation from too much weight can make your legs feel numb and stiff like that, but so can damage to the spine.  I'm both overweight and have a serious back injury, my legs are all goofed up, stiff, limping, some neuropathy, and just the other day both my feet got numb.  But if you've got diabetes, you are in luck, if such a thing can be characterized as lucky, because it can be controlled by managing insulin levels in the body.  Do as your diabetic doctor tells you, and you'll be okay.  As for exercising again to lose some weight, you can do all sorts of exercise without putting too much pressure on your legs and spine, like swimming is an excellent sport for someone whose legs can't take the banging around that running does.  Really, anything that will cause you to break a sweat will help you lose weight.  Also, if you can manage to get a good exercise programme going again, and you do lose weight, SOMEtimes that will take care of diabetes, to where it won't be a health issue for you anymore.

[SF2223]

Ironically days after posting this I was diagnosed with new onset diabetes.  Suddenly I have a new fear of what is causing my nerve issues in my legs. this stuff makes me scared.