Foot issues can be bothersome because they support your weight when you stand, walk, or run. Any kind of pain in this body part can cause mobility difficulties.
While foot pain can be unbearable, one problem that many people tend to shake off is foot numbness. It can be tolerable at infrequent, minor levels, it can be a sign of a more serious condition especially if it comes often and with higher intensity.
If you have been experiencing foot numbness, it is better to find out more about it so you can deal with it the right way. Here’s what you should know.
Why Do You Get Numb Feet?
Foot numbness is pretty straightforward: it occurs when your foot loses sensation. Some of the hallmark signs of numb feet is a prickling or tingling sensation. It is often combined with that classic foot pain of experiencing pins-and-needles feeling and weakness in the feet.
This can be a temporary condition or a long-term one. It can also happen occasionally or more frequently, and at less intense levels to more severe ones, depending on what causes it.
Temporary numb feet can be caused by a lack of blood circulation, especially when you position your legs wrong. It usually goes away in a matter of minutes.
However, lack of circulation can also be due to medical conditions such as obesity, heart conditions, and diabetes. In this case, the numbness can be more frequent and intense
Other medical conditions that can cause numb feet are herniated disks, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, alcoholism, and more.
What to Do When You Get Numb Feet
- Get Moving
If lack of circulation due to wrong positioning is the cause, your best bet is to move around to get your blood moving. This may be uncomfortable and difficult in the beginning but it can also help distract you from the pain and numbness until it is completely gone.
Moving your feet and legs can help minimize the occurrence of this issue, so make sure you get some exercise.
- Consult a Doctor
Should you have an existing condition, you might want to ask your physician if your foot numbness can be related to it. Consulting a doctor is also a good choice even if you do not have a medical issue.
This way, you can address the source of the problem and reduce the frequency and intensity. This can also help you identify any unknown condition you may have.
- Get it Checked by a Podiatrist
A great way to take care of any foot-related issue is to see a podiatrist. These foot doctors can take a look at your numb feet and help identify what is causing it. Treatment by a podiatrist and a general or specialist physician can come hand-in-hand when treating foot numbness.
The Bottom Line
Having numb feet can seem like a minor issue, but if you are suffering from it more frequently and intensely, then you should address it as soon as possible. Make sure to consult a reliable podiatrist to help deal with the problem the right way.
