Many conditions can cause foot numbness. According to the MedlinePlus website, numbness is an abnormal sensation that can manifest anywhere in a person's body. One of the most common locations for numbness is the feet. In some cases, foot numbness is unilateral, occurring in only one foot. In other cases, foot numbness may be bilateral, occurring in both feet. Nerve problems, malnutrition and certain chronic diseases may cause foot numbness.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of foot numbness among diabetics. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, about 60 to 70 percent of diabetics have some type of diabetic neuropathy. Elevated blood sugar -- a hallmark of uncontrolled diabetes -- can damage nerve fibers throughout the body. The most common locations for diabetes-related nerve damage are the legs and feet. Common signs and symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy include numbness in the feet and toes; pain, tingling or burning sensations in the affected areas; pain that is usually worse at night or when walking; muscle weakness; a loss of balance and coordination; and foot ulcers, infections and deformities. The NIDDK states that the highest rates of diabetic neuropathy are among people who have had diabetes for at least 25 years.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can cause numbness in the extremities, including the hands and feet. Anemia occurs when a person's body does not produce sufficient quantities of healthy red blood cells. These cells deliver oxygen to the body's tissues and organs. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia involves a low red blood cell count. Possible causes of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include a lack of vitamin B12 in the diet and conditions that impair the body's ability to absorb enough vitamin B12, including alcoholism, celiac disease, pernicious anemia, surgeries that remove portions of the stomach or small intestine and long-term use of antacids. Common signs and symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include numbness in the hands and feet, fatigue, loss of appetite, confusion, depression and loss of balance.
Leprosy
Leprosy is a chronic infection that can cause foot numbness. Leprosy is rare in the United States, although it is still common in certain developing countries. According to the Merck Manuals website, approximately 250,000 new cases of leprosy were reported in 2007. Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is caused by the bacteria mycobacterium leprae. Leprosy damages peripheral nerves or the nerves that exist outside the brain and spinal cord. Although leprosy can develop at any age, people between the ages of 5 and 15, or people over the age of 30, are most likely affected. Common signs and symptoms associated with leprosy include numbness or a lack of sensation in the hands, arms, feet and legs; muscle weakness; and skin lesions that fail to heal after weeks or months. The Merck Manuals website states that the method of transmission of this disease -- how it is passed from person to person -- is still unknown.
