The feet are comprised of bones, ligaments and nerves. Damage to any of these structures can result in temporary symptoms of pain, tingling or numbness. Simple causes of foot numbness include sitting in one position for too long, wearing shoes that place pressure on the foot or overuse of the extremities from sports such as long distance running. Foot numbness can also be caused by certain medical conditions.
Neuromas
Neuroma occurs when nerves of the foot swell or become inflamed, first impacting the toes then the surface of the foot. Foot injuries, shoes causing pressure to the foot -- such as heels or ill-fitting shoes -- and repetitive trauma to the foot contribute to the development of numbness from neuroma. According to the Cleveland Clinic, neuromas cause sharp pain in the ball of the foot, as well as toe numbness and pain after movement such as jogging. Neuroma is treatable without surgery by wearing shoes with a better fit, using anti-inflammatory medications and applying ice. If pain persists, surgery is an option, but this may result in permanent foot numbness since removal of the nerve is the course of treatment.
Diabetes and Neuropathies
Diabetes is a medical condition impacting how the body processes blood glucose. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse explains that nearly 70 percent of people with diabetes experience a co-occurring nerve disorder, or neuropathy. Neuropathy refers to a set of nerve problems caused in different parts of the body. Peripheral and small fiber neuropathy affect the upper and lower extremities. In diabetics, sensation loss in the feet, legs and upper extremities occurs, and is accompanied by numbness, tingling and pain. Diabetic neuropathy results from a combination of factors such as low levels of insulin paired with high blood glucose, inflammation of the nerves from a compromised immune system, and unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol use.
Peripheral Artery Disease
Narrowing of the blood vessels resulting in decreased blood flow can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation. MedlinePlus notes that peripheral artery disease is caused by arterial hardening from plaque accumulation in the artery walls. Poor blood flow forces the legs to work harder to achieve proper oxygenation during movement or rest. Over time, the body is unable to process adequate blood flow and oxygen, leading to tingling and numbness of the feet, toes and legs. In a majority of cases of peripheral artery disease, lifestyle changes can unclog the artery to induce better circulation and reduce the risk of foot numbness.
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a condition in which the smaller arteries supplying blood to the skin become narrowed. MayoClinic.com explains that this limits blood circulation, resulting in numbness of the toes, feet, nose and ears. Temperature sensitivity is a common symptom of this condition, which impacts the experience of numbness in the extremities due to poor circulation. Raynaud's disease is managed with medications and lifestyle changes; however, the condition is lifelong.
