Numb Feet: 3 Causes to Consider

Numb feet can be an unsettling experience and is often caused by sitting still for too long, like on a long plane or train trip. However, other causes of numbness in your feet (such as diabetes) may be more problematic. These causes may be more difficult to identify without the help of your foot doctor.

Reasons for numb feet include:

1. Nerve damage from diabetes — Diabetes can cause peripheral nerve damage, which decreases the sense of feeling in the hands and feet. Foot numbness is one of the first indications you may be developing diabetes.
2. Morton’s neuroma—A neuroma is a growth around a nerve that inhibits proper nerve function. A common cause of numbness in the feet is Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma occurs in the ball of the foot and can radiate to other areas. Neuromas can often be treated with physical therapy and the proper placement of custom orthotic inserts. In severe cases, you may need surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerve.
3. Nutrient deficiencies—Not getting enough B vitamins and minerals in your diet can interfere with proper nerve function. This can lead to numbness and tingling in the feet and ankles.

Do you frequently experience numbness in your feet without an obvious cause (like sitting in one place for too long without moving)? If so, you should contact your foot doctor for further evaluation and proper treatment. The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. Our team of doctors, including Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACFAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, and Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, is dedicated to serving you with state-of-the-art, cutting edge medical technologies. These technologies include the PinPointe FootLaser, custom-fitted orthotics, and Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) for chronic foot, heel, or ankle pain. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.