According to MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, numbness is an abnormal sensation that is commonly felt on the feet, arms and legs. There are many possible causes of numbness such as injury to a nerve, lack of blood supply or a medical condition such as an underactive thyroid. There are a number of treatments available to help treat numbness in the foot.
Compressions
According to a 2005 issue of "Natural Health" magazine, warm and cold compressions can be used on the feet to help reduce numbness. Those suffering from foot numbness should consider applying a warm or cold cloth to the foot. The temperature from the cloth will help ease the muscles and also encourage blood circulation. Those affected should perform this method at least twice a week.
Daily Exercise
MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, notes that low amounts of blood supply in the foot results in blood not being circulated properly and can lead to numbness. The "Natural Health" magazine states that exercising once a day may help reduce numbness in the foot. Even a brief walk or 10 minute workout will help get the blood flowing.
Supplements
MedlinePlus explains that a lack of proper nutritional needs can cause foot numbness. Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin that is responsible for the production and circulation of red blood cells in the body, which transfer energy to other cells. Low amounts of vitamin B12 may result in red blood cells not reaching tissues or cells in an adequate amount of time, resulting in weak feet. Also, abnormal levels of calcium, potassium and sodium can lead to numbness in the feet, according to MedlinePlus.
References
- "Natural Health" magazine; Numbness; June 2005
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin B12
- MedlinePlus: Numbness and tingling
