It is common to experience numbness in the feet when circulation is temporarily cut off. Sitting in an awkward potion for too long or wearing improper footwear are common causes of numb feet. If numbness is accompanied by other symptoms, an underlying condition may exist. Consult a doctor if numbness of the foot is chronic.
Neuromas
Some women wear narrow, constrictive shoes for the sake of fashion. While the occasional cramped pumps will likely only result in sore feet, wearing shoes that are too tight on a regular basis can cause benign swelling of nerves in the feet--neuromas. Aside from numbness in the feet, neuromas also cause tingling, or burning sensations. To avoid developing neuromas, which can result in the need for surgery to remove the damaged nerves, select shoes that conform to the shape of your feet and have your feet measures regularly, as the size of feet change with age, according to the medical information website Intelihealth.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that causes numbness in the feet, muscle weakness, loss of bladder control, vaginal dryness in women and erectile dysfunction in men and digestive problems. FamilyDoctor.org reports that men are more likely than women to develop diabetic neuropathy. Increased risks also exist for those who smoke or have high cholesterol levels. Keeping blood sugar levels steady and taking medications as prescribed are preventative measures.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease occurs when the blood vessels outside the heart narrow as a result of atherosclerosis, which is plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Typically, blood flow to the leg stops, which can causes numbness of the legs and feet. MayoClinic.com reports that severe cases lead to ischemic pain, or pain that occurs while lying down or resting. To avoid complications, such as the need for amputation, consult a doctor.
