Foot numbness while exercising can be the result of a variety of ailments. You may experience foot numbness due to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals or due to keeping your feet in one position for too long. Numbness is often referred to as paresthesia and can be the result of neuromas, neuropathy, vascular claudication or scar tissue. Always consult your doctor if you are experiencing numbness in your feet while exercising.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the balls of your feet -- most commonly between your third and fourth toes -- and involves the thickening of the tissue around the nerves in your foot. If you have Morton's neuroma, you are likely to experience pain, numbness and burning in the ball of your foot. It may also feel like you are constantly standing on a small rock. Morton's neuroma is the result of excessive foot irritation or occurs as the result of injury to the nerves in your feet. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, your doctor will perform a physical examination. An X-ray, ultrasound or MRI is also likely to be used to rule out other conditions and to reveal soft tissue abnormalities in your foot. Treatment for Morton's neuroma includes therapy, injections or surgery to remove or decompress the affected nerves.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy typically affects the hands and feet. It creates a tingling or burning sensation that can become quite painful. Neuropathy occurs as the result of damage to your nerves. Traumatic injuries, infections, exposure to toxins and diabetes can all lead to neuropathy of the foot. Neuropathy is considered to be a symptom of many health ailments and its exact cause can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint. Your doctor will perform a neurological examination, blood tests, imaging studies and a possible nerve biopsy to better understand your condition. Treatment focuses on managing the condition that is causing the numbness. Pain relief can include medication, exercise, taking proper care of your feet and leading a healthy lifestyle.
Vascular Claudication
Vascular claudication is caused by lack of blood flow to your lower extremities, especially as you are exercising. This condition most commonly affects your legs and feet. You are likely to experience pain and numbness during exercise at the onset of vascular claudication. As this condition progresses, you may experience pain and numbness even as you rest. This condition is more of a symptom than an actual health problem itself. Vascular claudication can be linked to peripheral artery disease. To diagnose your condition, your doctor will perform a physical examination and may order an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan to confirm your condition. Treatment can include lifestyle modification -- smoking cessation, walking, improved diet and medication. Surgery is an option if pain and numbness are interfering greatly with your work and lifestyle.
Scar Tissue
Numbness in your feet can also occur as the result of scar tissue. Scar tissue may form in your foot as the result of a previous injury or surgery. This tissue builds up around the nerves in your feet, causing pain and numbness. The scar tissue itself creates the problem. However, it is the binding of the nerves in your feet that causes pain and numbness. Scar tissue is diagnosed with imaging tests and physical examination. Stretching and therapy can help reduce the effects, and surgery may remove the scar tissue from your foot.
