Nearly three-quarters of American will experience foot problems at some point in their life, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. This is not surprising -- with 26 small bones, 33 joints and more than 100 muscles, ligaments and tendons, your feet are composed of many parts, each of which can sustain damage. With a large amount of stress being placed on your lower legs and feet as you exercise, you may experience pain or even tingling in your leg as the result of your exercise program. Always consult with a doctor if you experience foot pain or tingling in your legs.
Stress Fractures
A stress fracture in your foot can occur as the result of heavy walking or running, increasing your training regimen, ill-fitting shoes or as the result of a foot deformity. A stress fracture is a small crack in your bone that occurs over time -- unlike a traumatic fracture that occurs instantly. Most stress fractures occur in your metatarsal bones, which connect your foot to your toes. However, stress fractures can occur in the heel bone or the navicular bone -- the bone positioned just below your ankle. If you have a stress fracture, you are likely to experience more pain while exercising than you will while resting. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and imaging tests to diagnose your stress fracture. You will be asked to rest until your fracture heals and may also be placed in a walking cast and given anti-inflammatory medications. Your pain should subside in about six weeks.
Blisters, Corns and Calluses
Blisters, corns and calluses are common causes of foot pain in those who exercise. A majority of blisters, corns and calluses are the result of wearing ill-fitting or inappropriate footwear as you exercise. These shoes create excessive friction. Excessive friction can result in a blister, which is a liquid filled sack of skin that can occur anywhere on your feet. Most blisters are small and will go away on their own. However if one appears very large or infection, you should consult a podiatrist. Corns and calluses are also the result of excessive friction Corns and calluses create rough dead skin on your toes and on the soles of your feet. If you suspect you have a corn or callus, you should seek the advice of a medical professional for your treatment options.
Leg Paresthesia
Paresthesia is a burning or prickling sensation that typically occurs in the arms, hands, legs and feet. Paresthesia can occur without warning. Although it is normally painless, you may experience tingling, numbness or itching in the affected area. Many individuals experience paresthesia in their legs if they cross their legs too long or lay on one side of their body for too long. This occurs because excessive pressure is placed on your nerves. Paresthesia normally goes away quickly. Paresthesia can also be a chronic condition that occurs as the result of damage to the central nervous system -- including traumatic nerve damage, a stroke or a tumor.
Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy can cause pain, numbness, tingling and burning as well as a loss of sensation in your legs. Neuropathy is the result of nerve damage. You can sustain nerve damage as the result of infections, trauma, a metabolic issue or exposure to toxins. Another common reason for developing neuropathy is diabetes. The treatment of neuropathy largely depends on why you have developed neuropathy -- your doctor will conduct nerve and blood tests to determine the exact cause. Neuropathy can be treated with pain relievers, lidocaine patches, anti-seizure medication and electrical nerve stimulation. Regular exercise can help reduce the symptoms of neuropathy.
