Numbness in Feet: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Have you ever felt a weird tingling or numb sensation in your feet? It’s something most people experience at one time or another. Knowing why it happens and how to deal with it can make a big difference in your comfort and health. Let’s review the causes, symptoms, and treatments for numbness in your feet.

Is Foot Numbness Dangerous?

In most cases, foot numbness is nothing to worry about. But if it happens often or lasts too long, it might be a sign of a more serious problem. Numbness could come from simple things like sitting or standing in one spot too long. But it can also be linked to issues with circulation, nerves, or even chronic conditions like diabetes.

What Causes Numbness in Feet?

There are many reasons your feet might feel numb. Some are temporary, while others could indicate a deeper health issue. Here are a few possible causes:

• Sitting cross-legged for hours or standing still too long which can press on nerves.
• When blood flow to the feet decreases, it can cause numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling.
• High blood sugar can damage nerves over time and lead to diabetic neuropathy, which commonly causes numbness in the feet.
• A twisted ankle or foot trauma in Phoenix can damage nerves and cause a loss of feeling.
• Lack of certain vitamins, especially B12, can interfere with nerve function and cause numbness.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis or Multiple Sclerosis can also cause numbness in your feet.

Symptoms of Numbness in Feet

The numbness could happen in one foot or both. It might be temporary or long-lasting, depending on what’s causing it. Symptoms include:

• The classic “pins and needles” sensation.
• The feeling of your foot being weighed down or freezing.
• Difficulty standing or walking may occur if numbness affects your ability to feel the ground properly.
• Numbness that comes with discomfort, swelling, or redness might be a sign of something more serious.

How to Stop Numbness in Legs and Feet?

If you have numbness in your feet, the treatment depends on the cause. Let’s look at a few options that might help.

Natural Treatment for Numbness in Feet

• Gently stretch your feet and legs to help get the blood flowing.
• Massaging your feet can increase circulation and reduce numbness.
• Soaking your feet in warm water can help relax muscles and improve blood flow.
• Some oils, like peppermint, may help stimulate nerves and reduce tingling.

Numbness in Feet and Hands

Numbness in both feet and hands can signal a serious issue, such as nerve damage (often from diabetes), PAD, carpal tunnel syndrome, MS, or nerve compression. Treatments include managing diabetes, physical therapy, gabapentin, braces for compression, and lifestyle changes. Severe cases may require surgery.

Numbness in Feet and Toes

Numb toes in Scottsdale are common and can be caused by tight shoes, nerve compression, circulation issues, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, or Shingles. If it doesn’t improve with changes, see a doctor. Treatments may include controlling blood sugar, improving circulation, physical therapy, nerve pain medications like gabapentin, braces for compression, and surgery for severe cases like Morton’s neuroma or Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

Numbness in Soles of Feet

Numbness in the soles of your feet can be caused by Morton’s Neuroma, or tight shoes. It’s common in people with diabetes but can also result from standing too long or injury. Treatment includes managing diabetes, physical therapy, gabapentin, well-fitted shoes, and lifestyle changes. Severe cases may require surgery to relieve nerve compression.

Numbness in Balls of Feet

Numbness in the balls of your feet can happen from wearing high heels, standing too long, or even having flat feet. Conditions like Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerves in the ball of the foot, can also lead to numbness. Treatment may include wearing proper shoes, managing underlying conditions, physical therapy, nerve pain medications, and, in severe cases, surgery.

Tingling and Numbness in Feet

Tingling and numbness often go hand in hand. If your feet feel both numb and tingly, it could indicate pressure on the nerves or poor circulation. Treatment depends on the cause and may include managing diabetes, improving circulation, physical therapy, nerve pain medications like gabapentin, wearing proper footwear in Chandler, or surgery for severe cases.

Numbness in Feet After Wearing Heels

Wearing high heels too often can cause numbness in your feet by limiting blood flow and putting pressure on your nerves. Try switching to shoes with lower heels and better support, and incorporate foot exercises in Mesa to improve circulation. Taking breaks from standing or walking in heels, using cushioned insoles, and gently massaging your feet can also help.

Diabetes and Numbness in Feet

Diabetes can cause a type of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy. This condition often leads to numbness or tingling in the feet. Treatment includes:

• Controlling blood sugar.
• Taking medications like gabapentin for nerve pain.
• Checking feet regularly in Gilbert.
• Wearing well-fitted shoes.
• Doing physical therapy to improve circulation.

When Should I Worry About Foot Numbness?

Foot numbness is usually temporary, but see a doctor if:

• Numbness doesn’t go away after resting, suggesting nerve or circulation issues.
• Numbness comes with pain, redness, or swelling.
• You have difficulty walking or standing which could signal a serious nerve problem.

Note: In diabetics, numbness may point to worsening neuropathy.

What is the Best Medicine for Numbness in Feet?

The best medicine for numbness in feet depends on the cause, but Gabapentin is commonly prescribed to manage nerve pain and numbness, especially in cases like diabetic neuropathy. It helps stabilize nerve activity and reduce pain signals. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the right treatment for your condition.

Treating Numbness in Feet in Arizona

If you’re struggling with numbness in your feet, don’t wait to get help. Our team of foot experts at Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers can help you figure out what’s going on and guide you toward the best treatment. Whether you’re in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, or Phoenix, we’re here to help your feet feel better. Visit us online to book your appointment.

Conclusion

Foot numbness can be caused by anything from nerve pressure to conditions like diabetes. While not always serious, persistent or painful numbness should be checked. Addressing it early can help prevent further issues. If you’re experiencing foot numbness, contact a foot specialist for the right treatment and to get back on your feet.

FAQs