Symptoms

The key symptom of numbness in the foot is a loss of sensation. However, depending on the cause of the numbness you may also experience a feeling of weakness, or a prickling ‘pins-and-needles’ sensation in the foot area.

Hair loss on the lower legs and feet, chronic inflammation (like pain and swelling) of the foot area, or change in toe colour are also symptoms of foot numbness, but will also depend on the cause and severity of the problem.

Causes

There are a number of potential causes of foot numbness. These include:

Poor circulation
Occurs when blood flow is restricted. If you have poor circulation, the muscles and nerves of your feet will not be receiving an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen, which can lead to a loss of sensation.
Tarsel Tunnel Syndrome (TTS)
Occurs due to pressure on the posterior tibial nerve.
Diabetes
May cause weakness of the blood vessels. People with diabetes may also develop a condition called Diabetic Neuropathy – where high blood glucose levels and blood fat levels cause nerve damage.
High blood pressure
Can damage the venous system, restricting blood flow to the extremities.
Raynaud's disease
A condition affecting the smaller arteries of the hands and feet, limiting blood flow.
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Where plaque builds up in the arteries due to excess cholesterol or calcium, restricting blood flow which leads to poor circulation.
Multiple sclerosis
A condition of the brain and spinal cord, may cause loss of sensation in different areas of the body, including the feet.

Numbness in your feet

References

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