Being a new runner is exhilarating. You feel healthier, you're setting new goals and you're in touch with your physical self. But it is undeniably challenging. You may be prepared for aches and pains you've heard about, such as shin splints or achy knees. But numbness in parts of your body you're only now getting to know can confound and distress you -- especially when it happens in your first point of contact with the ground: your feet.
Morton's Neuroma
A neuroma is a benign but often problematic thickening of the fibrous tissue surrounding a neuron, or nerve cell. A common location is the nerve in the foot supplying the third and fourth toes, where a special type of neuroma, called a Morton's neuroma, may form. The cause is usually a cyst, bone spur or other formation that is ordinarily not present. Biomechanical anomalies, such as overpronation -- or an exaggerated inward roll of the foot during the phase of your stride when your foot is on the ground -- can also set you up for a Morton's neuroma.
Shoe or Lacing Problems
Foot numbness during running is often related to either the size and shape of your running shoes or how you have tied the shoe laces. Not all feet are created equal, and a shoe that conforms ideally to someone else's foot may be a liability for you. Numbness on the top of the foot on one or both sides is usually indicative of a problem with either the wrong size or type of shoe or, even more commonly, overly tight laces. Experiment with different shoes or lacing schemes and your problem may disappear quickly and permanently.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
While not as common or well-known as its upper-limb cousin, carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome, can bring your running to a standstill. It occurs when the tendons and nerves passing through the ankle are compressed by the sheath holding them in place. Numbness in the bottom of the heel is a cardinal symptom, as the nerve most often affected is the posterior tibial branch of the sciatic. Biomechanical problems are the usual cause. Treatment involves orthotics, stopping running temporarily, a steroid injection and surgery in some cases.
Blood-Flow Reduction
Foot numbness in runners is usually attributable to impingement of a nerve. An interruption in the blood supply to the feet, however, can lead to similar symptoms. Common causes include hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. Lifestyle choices, such as cigarette smoking, poor diet and jogging in the cold also contribute, as do chronic diseases, like diabetes. Treatment typically involves lifestyle modification, medication or both to address the underlying health issues.
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