Why Are My Feet Numb? 9 Possible Causes and Treatments for Numb Feet

What Causes Numb Feet?

Here are some of the most common causes of numbness or tingling in the feet:

1. Sitting Too Long

One of the most common reasons people experience numb feet is simply sitting too long with crossed legs or in an uncomfortable position. This can put pressure on the nerves supplying the feet, causing tingling or numbness.

Getting up and walking around, stretching, or changing positions can typically alleviate this temporary numb feeling in the feet.

2. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, women often experience numbness or tingling in the feet. This is usually caused by the extra weight and swelling that occurs during pregnancy putting pressure on the nerves.

Elevating the legs, using supportive footwear, doing foot exercises, and massaging the feet can all help improve blood flow and relieve pregnancy-related numbness in the feet.

3. Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that can cause numbness, pain, tingling or weakness. It commonly affects the feet and legs. People with diabetes are at higher risk for developing peripheral neuropathy.

Other causes include autoimmune diseases, infections, nutritional deficiencies, alcoholism, chemotherapy, and trauma or compression of the nerves. Treating the underlying condition can stop progression of neuropathy.

4. Sciatica

Sciatica refers to compression of or damage to the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of each leg. This can cause numbness, tingling, or painful burning sensations from the lower back and down the leg into the foot.

Sciatica is commonly caused by a herniated disk or bone spur compressing part of the nerve. Treatment aims to relieve pressure on the nerve through physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes surgery.

5. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that damages the myelin sheath surrounding nerves. This can disrupt signals between the brain and body, leading to various symptoms including numbness or tingling in the feet or legs.

MS requires close management with medications that modulate the immune system and supplements. Numbness symptoms can often be relieved through medication, rest, massage, warmth, and low-impact exercise.

6. Diabetes

High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can injure nerves over time, leading to diabetic neuropathy. Up to 50% of people with diabetes develop neuropathy, which commonly manifests as numbness or pain in the feet.

Controlling blood sugar levels through medication, diet, exercise and foot care is key to preventing and managing diabetic neuropathy.

7. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Lack of vitamin B12 can cause numb, tingling feet. Vitamin B12 is essential for proper nerve cell function. Low levels are associated with peripheral neuropathy.

Those at risk for B12 deficiency include vegetarians, the elderly, and those with absorption disorders. B12 supplements, diet changes, and/or injections can help increase levels.

8. Frostbite

Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage nerves and small blood vessels in the feet. This can result in numb, pale feet with a tingling or burning sensation after coming back inside and warming up.

The numbness should resolve on its own. Severe or recurring frostbite requires medical attention to prevent permanent damage leading to chronic pain or loss of tissue.

9. Alcohol Abuse

Chronic excessive alcohol consumption is a known cause of peripheral neuropathy. Toxins from alcohol can damage nerves, causing numbness or unusual sensations in the feet and hands.

Quitting alcohol, nutrition supplements, and physical therapy can help treat neuropathy. Severe cases may require medication to manage nerve pain.

When to See a Doctor

In most cases, temporary numbness in the feet is not a cause for concern. It often resolves with time, changing positions, massage, warm soaks, or other home remedies.

However, you should see a doctor if numbness in the feet:

• Happens frequently or persists for more than a few days
• Spreads up the legs
• Is accompanied by pain, swelling, or leg weakness
• Occurs without a known cause like sitting too long

Seeking timely medical attention can help diagnose and treat an underlying condition before permanent nerve damage occurs.

Diagnosing the Cause of Numb Feet

To determine the cause of foot numbness, the doctor will begin with a physical exam of the legs, feet, and toes. They will check reflexes and sensation using simple tests like gently pressing the feet with a device called a monofilament.

Your medical history, any existing health conditions, and a description of your symptoms can help the doctor narrow down potential causes. For example, numbness in both feet is more likely to result from systemic conditions like diabetes or B12 deficiency.

Depending on the suspected cause, the doctor may run blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies, glucose levels, thyroid problems, or signs of autoimmune disorders. Neurological tests and imaging scans like MRIs can reveal nerve damage or sources of compression on the spinal cord or nerves.

Treatment Options for Numb Feet

Treatments for numb feet usually focus on the underlying cause:

Medications

Medications that may help treat neuropathy and numbness include:

• Pain relievers - Over-the-counter pain medications or prescription options can relieve discomfort.
• Corticosteroids - Reduces nerve inflammation.
• Antidepressants - Certain types like SSRIs and SNRIs have been found effective for neuropathic pain.
• Anticonvulsants - Used to calm nerve activity and sensations.

Lifestyle Changes

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can aid neuropathy treatments and foot numbness:

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Follow a healthy diet and lose excess weight if needed.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
• Control blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medication if diabetic.
• Take frequent movement breaks if sitting for long periods.
• Use proper footwear and orthotics.
• Apply warm/cold therapy to relieve discomfort.

Physical Therapy

Working with a physical therapist can help manage gait, balance, and mobility issues related to foot numbness through techniques like:

• Muscle strengthening exercises
• Stretching
• Massage
• Whirlpool baths
• Electrical nerve stimulation

Surgery

Surgery may be an option for severe numbness caused by nerve compression, such as with severe sciatica. Procedures can relieve pressure on affected nerves.

Coping with Numb Feet

Living with ongoing numbness or tingling in the feet can be challenging and frustrating. Some tips for coping until it resolves or treating the symptoms include:

• Massaging the legs and feet to stimulate circulation
• Avoid

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.