Running can cause a number of side effects, some of which pose no serious health risks. Others, however, may warrant a visit to your doctor. One common complaint among runners is a tingling sensation in certain parts, or throughout the body. The reasons for tingling are varied, and you should take steps to identify the cause. One clue as to whether the tingling is a sign of more serious problems, is where on your body you feel the sensation.
Neuroma
You may feel a tingling sensation between your toes if you have neuromas. The tingling is typically most prevalent between the third and fourth toes and can make your skin feel like it's burning or inflamed. Such sensations develop underneath the skin's surface as you run and can be frustrating and even painful. Neuromas are bundles of nerve endings that have become pinched or inflamed -- a condition common among people who have metatarsal bones that move too easily. You can relieve the sensation by icing your foot for 10 to 15 minutes, every hour, for five hours. For long-term relief, insert padding in your shoes that supports the area where your foot meets your toes. This helps reduce the amount of movement in your metatarsals -- and the nerve irritation when your foot bends repetitively while running.
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Chronic exertional compartment syndrome, or CECS, can cause tingling, swelling, numbness and pain. This rare exercise-induced syndrome can affect the muscles in your arms and legs. Runners are especially prone to this neuromuscular condition, due to the repetitive motions made by their legs, feet and arms. The symptoms are typically only noticeable while you exercise and shortly thereafter. Repeatedly ignoring signs of CECS can lead to permanent numbness and weaker muscles. In most cases of CECS, surgery is recommended to help relieve the pressure that has built up on the nerve endings and blood vessels. CECS is also known as chronic compartment syndrome, or exercise-induced compartment syndrome.
Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome
Much like CECS, popliteal artery entrapment syndrome, or PAES, is a rare condition that can cause tingling or numbness. The popliteal artery is located behind the knee and delivers blood to your lower legs. Should the artery become compressed or pinched, blood flow to the muscles in your legs is reduced, which can result in a tingling sensation. The artery can become compressed from the repetitive bending motion of your leg while running, but the compression generally resolves on its own once you stop exercising. Through surgery, the artery can be freed from the gastrocnemius muscle, which is typically the cause of the entrapment.
Injuries
Injuries from falls can cause pinched nerves. In some cases, the pinched nerves can affect multiple parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs and feet. All of these areas are susceptible to tingling and numbness. If you fall during a run, or in general, and begin to feel tingling sensations on a regular basis, speak to your doctor to determine if any nerves became pinched during the fall. Injuries could be difficult to detect without a proper examination. Your doctor may recommend chiropractic care to help relieve the tingling if he feels there is no need for surgery.
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