An Easy Guide to Numbness of Foot | What Are the Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Have you ever felt a strange tingling or numbness in feet that just won’t go away?
Maybe your foot “falls asleep” too often. Or maybe you feel a pins-and-needles sensation that makes walking uncomfortable. Foot numbness isn’t just annoying. It could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about numbness of foot. From its causes to treatments and when to see a doctor. Let’s get started.
What Is Foot Numbness?
Numbness in feet happens when you lose sensation in one or both feet. Sometimes, it’s just a temporary thing. Like when you sit in a weird position for too long. Other times, it can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Most cases of numbness are linked to nerve damage, poor circulation, or pressure on the nerves. But is foot numbness dangerous? Not always. If it happens once in a while, it’s usually nothing to worry about. But if it’s frequent or comes with pain, weakness, or trouble balancing, it’s best to see a doctor.
Numbness and tingling in feet can be a short-term issue or part of a long-term condition, like diabetes. It can also get worse over time. Like starting with mild tingling and eventually leading to a complete loss of sensation. Getting medical advice early can help manage the condition and prevent further complications.
Symptoms of Numbness in Foot
The symptoms can vary based on the cause, but common signs include:
- Loss of sensation – Feeling like your foot is “asleep.”
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation – A prickling feeling in your foot.
- Burning or sharp pain – Often linked to peripheral neuropathy.
- Weakness in the foot – Difficulty walking or standing.
- Coldness or discolouration – Could be due to poor circulation.
- Difficulty balancing – Nerve issues may affect coordination.
What Are the Causes of Numbness in Your Foot?
Numbness of foot can happen for many reasons. Some are harmless. Whereas, others might need medical attention. From sitting in an awkward position to nerve damage or circulation issues, identifying the causes of numbness is key to finding the right solution.
Here’s a quick look at the most common causes of foot numbness.
| Cause | Description |
| Poor Circulation | Conditions like Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) restrict blood flow which leads to numbness in your feet. |
| Pinched Nerve | Nerve compression in the lower back or foot (like in sciatica or tarsal tunnel syndrome) can cause numbness of foot. |
| Diabetic Neuropathy | High blood sugar damages nerves, leading to foot numbness, especially in both feet. |
| Vitamin Deficiency | Lack of B vitamins, especially B12, can cause nerve damage and symptoms of numbness. |
| Alcoholic Neuropathy | Long-term alcohol use damages nerves and causes numbness. |
| Injuries | Fractures, sprains, or trauma can put pressure on nerves and result in numbness of foot. |
| Autoimmune Diseases | Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis can affect nerves and circulation, leading to numbness and tingling in your feet. |
| Morton’s Neuroma | A non-cancerous nerve tumor that can cause pain and numbness in toes. |
| Spinal Issues (Degenerative Disc Disease, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke) | Problems in the spine or brain can affect nerve function and lead to persistent foot numbness. |
| Peripheral Neuropathy | Nerve damage due to infections, toxins, or medical conditions can cause numbness in your feet. |
| Guillain-Barré Syndrome | A rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks nerves, starting with numbness in feet. |
| Frostbite | Severe cold exposure damages tissues and nerves, causing numbness and loss of sensation. |
| Shingles & Lyme Disease | These infections can affect the nervous system and cause symptoms of numbness and pain. |
| Medication Side Effects | Some treatments, like chemotherapy, can cause nerve damage leading to numbness. |
How to Diagnose Numbness in Feet | Medical Check-ups & Tests
If you’ve been experiencing and wondering what’s causing it, your doctor will need to run a few tests to get to the root of the problem. The diagnosis depends on how often and how severe your symptoms are.
Step-by-Step Diagnosis of Foot Numbness
1. Medical History & Symptom Check
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical background. Some common questions include:
- When did you first notice the numbness of foot?
- Does the numbness come and go, or is it constant?
- Do you experience numbness and tingling in feet or any pain?
- What makes it better or worse?
2. Physical Examination
A hands-on check-up helps determine if the foot numbness affects one or both feet. The doctor will check muscle strength, reflexes, and sensitivity to touch.
3. Diagnostic Tests
Depending on the suspected cause, your doctor can order tests. Such as:
| Test | Purpose |
| Blood Tests | Checks for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and infections. |
| X-Rays | Detects bone issues, fractures, or arthritis. |
| MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) | Views abnormalities in the spine, spinal cord, or brain. |
| CT Scan | Identifies stroke-related causes of numbness in feet. |
| Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) | Measures how well nerves transmit signals. |
| Electromyography (EMG) | Evaluates muscle response to electrical stimulation. |
| PET Scan | Helps detect neurological disorders. |
The type of tests ordered depends on the suspected cause. If you’re dealing with persistent numbness of foot, early diagnosis is the best way to prevent complications.
Wondering how to stop numbness for good? The key is identifying the cause and taking action early.
How to Treat Numbness in Feet | Effective Treatments & Home Remedies
Dealing with foot numbness can be frustrating. Especially if it keeps coming back. The right treatment depends on what’s causing the issue. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes can help. Whereas, others may need medical attention.
Medical Treatments for Foot Numbness
If your numbness in feet is caused by an underlying condition, your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments:
- Physical Therapy – Helps strengthen muscles and improve movement. Especially for peripheral neuropathy or nerve-related issues.
- Surgery – If a pinched nerve is causing numbness, procedures like lumbar discectomy can relieve pressure.
- Nerve Pain Medications – Can help reduce abnormal sensations and pain linked to nerve damage.
- Stress Management & Relaxation Techniques – Reducing anxiety can sometimes help with numbness and tingling in feet.
- Disease-Modifying Therapy – Used for conditions like multiple sclerosis to slow progression.
- Diabetic Neuropathy Medications – Drugs like pregabalin (Lyrica) help block nerve pain signals.
- Anxiety Medications – May be prescribed if numbness of foot is linked to panic attacks.
- Fibromyalgia Medications – Drugs like Cymbalta or Savella can help manage nerve pain.
- Dietary Changes & Vitamin Supplements – Deficiencies in B vitamins and other nutrients can cause symptoms of numbness.
Alternative therapies like reflexology or acupuncture may also provide relief, though research is still limited.
Home Remedies for Immediate Relief
If you’re wondering how to stop numbness in feet at home, try these simple remedies:
- Move Around – Avoid sitting too long; stretch or walk to boost circulation.
- Massage & Stretch – Gentle massage and stretching improve blood flow.
- Soak in Warm Water – A warm soak or Epsom salt bath relaxes muscles and enhances sensation.
- Manage Blood Sugar – Keep sugar levels stable to prevent worsening numbness.
- Use Capsaicin Cream – Apply capsaicin to reduce nerve pain.
- Wear Compression Socks – Supports circulation and helps prevent numbness.
- Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol – Improves blood flow and nerve health.
- Choose Supportive Shoes – Reduces pressure on nerves for better comfort.
- Stay Active – Walk, swim, or do yoga to keep circulation strong.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If your foot numbness comes on suddenly or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help right away. Get immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent numbness and tingling that doesn’t improve
- Weakness, pain, or swelling in the foot
- Sudden numbness after an injury
- Difficulty walking or balancing
- Numbness spreading to other body parts
- Confusion or trouble speaking
- Dizziness or loss of coordination
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe headache along with numbness
- Trouble breathing
- Numbness that develops within minutes or hours
- Numbness in multiple body areas
- Numbness after a head injury
If you have concerns, Iluka Medical Centre can help. We can diagnose the cause and recommend the best treatment for your numbness of foot.
Get Expert Foot Numbness Diagnosis & Treatment at Iluka Medical Centre
Our expert podiatrist, Dr. Reza Naraghi and the experienced medical team is here to help. With specialised treatments for sports injuries, diabetic foot care, bunions, orthotics, nail surgery, and more, we ensure your feet stay strong, healthy, and pain-free.
Don’t ignore foot discomfort. It can affect your overall well-being. Get personalised, professional podiatry care tailored to your needs.
Call us at 08 6119 4700 or 08 6119 4701 now
Book your appointment online and take the first step toward pain-free movement
