Getting to the Bottom of Numb Heels
It can be alarming when your heels start to go numb. Numbness or tingling in the feet can result from many health conditions, some more serious than others. Finding the root cause is key to getting effective treatment and relief.
Common Causes of Numb Heels
Some top reasons you may develop numb, tingling heels include:
- Nerve compression - Pressure on nerves running through the heels and feet from conditions like a herniated disc or bone spur can cause neuropathy symptoms
- Diabetes - High blood sugar levels lead to nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy
- Vitamin deficiencies - Lack of B12, folate, thiamine and other nutrients can disrupt nerve function
- Autoimmune diseases - Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis cause systemic inflammation that can damage nerves
- Poor circulation - Reduced blood flow from peripheral artery disease, varicose veins or cold exposure diminishes nerve oxygenation
- Alcohol abuse - Toxins and nutritional deficiencies from excessive drinking contribute to neuropathy
Getting an accurate diagnosis of the cause is critical to determine appropriate treatment to stop nerve damage and relieve uncomfortable numb heels.
Associated Symptoms
Along with numb, tingly heels, you may experience other concerning sensations like:
- Prickling pins and needles
- Burning
- Sharp, shooting pains
- Hypersensitivity to touch
- Clumsiness, lack of coordination and balance from diminished sensation
- Muscle weakness
These symptoms tend to start gradually and worsen over time without treatment. The nerve irritation may come and go at first. As it becomes more constant, prompt medical evaluation is key to minimizing permanent heel numbness and dysfunction.
Most Vulnerable Demographics
Those at greatest risk for developing numb, painful heels include:
- People over age 50
- Those with diabetes, especially with poor blood sugar control
- People with autoimmune disorders
- Individuals with nutritional deficiencies
- People with circulatory system issues from smoking, obesity, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Individuals with a history of lower back problems or compressed nerves
- Those who regularly consume excessive alcohol
While numbness in heels can happen at any age, being proactive about managing health conditions that commonly contribute to neuropathy can help reduce your risk.
Seeking a Professional Evaluation
Only a full medical workup can determine whats causing your heel numbness. Be prepared to:
- Provide a detailed history of symptoms and any changes since they started
- Note any relevant family history or health conditions you have
- List all current medications and supplements
- Expect a neurological exam assessing reflexes and sensations
- Potentially get blood tests checking blood sugar, vitamin levels, thyroid, cholesterol, etc.
- Discuss imaging tests like MRIs, nerve conduction studies, Doppler studies if warranted
Based on a thorough evaluation, your doctor will diagnose any underlying condition contributing to nerve dysfunction and numbness so appropriate treatment can begin promptly.
Medical Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on both relieving current heel numbness and tingling while also addressing the root cause to prevent permanent damage.
- Blood sugar control - For diabetes-related neuropathy
- Vitamin supplementation - Corrects nutritional deficiencies
- Prescription medications - Includes pain relievers, immune-modulating drugs
- Nerve block injections - Temporarily disables overactive nerves
- Lifestyle changes - Diet, sleep, exercise and stress reduction improvements
- Surgery - If compressed nerves are contributing to heel numbness
Relief typically starts quickly once treatment begins, but complete resolution takes time depending on severity. Dont delay seeking care for numb heels.
At-home Care and Prevention
You can help manage uncomfortable heel neuropathy symptoms and potentially prevent progression at home through steps like:
- Massage - Helps improves circulation
- Orthopedic pads - Cushion and support heels
- Topical numbing creams - Temporarily reduce discomfort
- Warm baths - Soothe irritated nerves
- Therapeutic exercises - Improve strength and balance
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol - Supports nerve health
- Stress management - Aid overall body function
Caring properly for your health with diet, activity and preventative medical care may also lower your changes of developing troubling numb heels in the future.
When to Seek Emergency Treatment
Seek immediate emergency care if you experience:
- Sudden loss of sensation
- Inability to move the foot
- Visible changes like color loss or sores developing
- Severe, unmanaged pain
These signs can indicate a rapidly progressing condition requiring intensive interventions to protect nerve function and extremity viability. Dont take chances with new heel numbness that arises suddenly or worsens quickly.
Outlook for Numb Heels Recovery
How well numb, tingling heels improve depends greatly on the underlying cause and speed of treatment.
Many vitamin deficiencies, blood sugar control issues, and compressed nerves often resolve fully when managed appropriately. However, significant nerve damage arises in one-third of diabetic neuropathy patients even with treatment. And autoimmune neuropathy remissions vary.
Committing to your treatment plan provides the best odds of regaining comfortable function. But some residual numbness may remain permanent without prompt care for suddenly developing numb heels.
Take Numb Heels Seriously
While it may start slowly with on-and-off tingling, untreated heel neuropathy tends to worsen over time. Getting to the bottom of whats causing your symptoms is critical to halt nerve damage before debilitating, constant numbness sets in.
Pay attention to your body and dont brush off seemingly minor heel numbness. Seek medical insight sooner than later to get properly diagnosed and start appropriate treatment right away - key steps for the best chance of relief from this aggravating symptom.
FAQs
Is it normal for heels to go numb when walking or standing too long?
It can be normal to temporarily experience some numbness or tingling after prolonged pressure on the heels. But frequent or worsening numbness with activity isn’t normal and should be medically evaluated.
Can shoes cause numb burning heels?
Yes, wearing shoes that lack proper support and cushioning or rub uncomfortably against the heels can irritate nerves and cause burning, tingling sensations. Trying supportive orthotic inserts may help.
Is heel numbness always a sign of nerve damage?
Not necessarily. Numb heels can sometimes result from simple circulation issues or mineral deficiencies. But progressive worsening numbness often does signal neurological disease requiring prompt treatment.
Can you recover fully from numb heels?
Many underlying causes of numb heels like vitamin deficiencies and pinched nerves can resolve fully with appropriate treatment. But significant nerve damage like from severe diabetic neuropathy may cause irreversible numbness despite therapy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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