Foot numbness can be caused by numerous factors. It is common to experience foot numbness when circulation is cut off or improper footwear is worn. Foot numbness can also be caused by structural defects and other medical conditions such as neuromas, diabetic neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Chronic foot numbness and other abnormal sensations may signal an underlying condition that requires medical intervention.
Neuromas
Wearing tight or restrictive shoes on a regular basis can cause neuromas or nerve swelling within the feet. In addition to numbness, neuromas also cause burning and tingling sensations. Neuroma development typically requires surgical removal of the damaged nerves. A person should select shoes that are properly measured and conforms to the foot shape, as the size of the feet change with time and age, according to InteliHealth, a medical information website.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
According to MedlinePlus, peripheral arterial disease occurs when blood vessels near the heart narrow, constrict and cause a condition called atherosclerosis, which enables plaque buildup within artery walls. Decreased blood flow and circulation to the legs typically causes numbness of the feet and legs. Severe cases of foot numbness often lead to ischemic, or chronic, pain that occurs while resting or lying down. Patients who suffer from chronic bouts of foot numbness should contact a physician for medical consultation.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetes can cause complications such as diabetic neuropathy, a condition where nerve damage causes numbness in the feet, loss of bladder control, muscle weakness, erectile dysfunction in men, vaginal dryness in women and digestive problems. FamilyDoctor.org explains that women are less likely than men to develop diabetic neuropathy. Individuals with high cholesterol levels or those who smoke are at greater risk for diabetic neuropathy. FamilyDoctor.org advises individuals who suffer from foot numbness as a result of diabetic neuropathy to take their prescribed medications as directed and maintain blood sugar levels as preventive measures.
