The main difference between the two is where the cavity within the spine where they are inserted (both are still inserted into the back). An epidural is essentially a "regional" block - meaning they can pinpoint where to block - this is why you often only get numbness from the waist down . A spinal block will give total numbness from the insertion site down (and sometimes a little higher as it can travel).
With both forms - you will be numb. Occassionally epidurals do result in "pockets" where you can still feel something. With an epidural they can "turn it down" so you can push.
You can get a "walking" epidural which means that you can walk but feel no pain. I am not aware of many anethetists who will do these (for various reasons).
I had both and there was no difference for me as the patient. Still couldn't move my legs, was totally numb, needed a catheter. Was able to move my legs within 30 min post section. Could have walked not long after but they keep you in bed for 24 hrs after a section where I was.
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