Jogging can sometimes cause your extremities to tingle or feel numb. Usually, this problem occurs in the feet or toes and results from a minor problem such as shoes that fit too tightly. Toe numbness sometimes clears up after purchasing comfortable shoes or making sure that the shoes are not laced too tightly. However, if the numbness persists you may have a more serious problem. If your big toe goes numb during a jog, check to see if a minor problem is the cause before you conclude you have a serious medical problem.
Cause
Jogging places pressure on the nerves on the bottom of your feet, especially those underneath the balls of your feet. This pressure can cause tingling or numbness in the toes, including your big toe. A neuroma, or swollen nerve, may also cause numbness. Your doctor may use ultrasonic imaging to determine if a neuroma is causing your toe to go numb. Other causes include more serious medical conditions, such as problems with the spine or a more rare syndrome.
Shoes
Numb toes are often caused by ill-fitting shoes. Check that your shoes fit in all dimensions, not just length. Shoes that are too short, too narrow or too low can cause nerve compression and subsequent numbness. If you have feet with high arches, make sure that your shoes are high enough to accommodate them. Don't tie your shoelaces too tightly, as that can cause compression and numbness. Make sure that none of your toes, especially your big toes, are touching the end of the shoe.
Orthotic Devices
Arch-supporting insoles and other orthotic devices may help solve your toe numbness. However, don't use orthotic devices that fit underneath the toes, as they may place more pressure on your toes and worsen the numbness. If you are using an orthotic device that runs underneath your toes, remove it and see if the problem goes away. Orthotic devices with ample room for the toes and a pad underneath the forefoot will help relieve the pressure placed on your feet during a jog.
Other Problems
If your toe continues to go numb during jogging, you may have a serious medical condition such as a lower spinal problem. If you optimize your shoes and orthotic devices and still experience problems, see a doctor. Spinal conditions such as herniated discs, disc degeneration and spine misalignment can all cause your toe to feel numb. If you have leg pain along with the numbness, you may have acute compartment syndrome. This serious condition requires immediate medical intervention.
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