Tips For Determining The Source Of Your Foot Numbness
Any time numbness occurs in your feet and persists for weeks or months, it's important that you seek the care of a foot specialist to help you diagnose it. There are many different medical conditions and issues that can cause this type of problem, and addressing them right away may help you avoid some long-term complications. Here are some of the most common causes of numbness in your feet to help you narrow things down before your visit.
Orthopedic Issues
Sometimes, orthopedic problems like a back injury, herniated disc or Sciatica can cause numbness and radiating pain that can affect your feet and ankles. This happens because of nerve damage caused by injuries like these. In addition, you may develop this type of pain and find yourself suffering from osteoporosis. If so, you'll need to have bone-strengthening treatments to help combat this. If your podiatrist isn't able to spot a problem specifically with your foot or ankle, an orthopedist may be a good place to turn next.
Circulatory Issues
If you have numbness that's isolated to a single foot, it could be due to circulatory issues. Sometimes, conditions like peripheral artery disease can cause problems like this. It's a common problem for older people, because aging leads to the narrowing of arteries. Arteries can often narrow as a result of poor diet, though, so it isn't a problem that's limited to the elderly.
In addition, conditions like deep vein thrombosis can also cause this type of problem. This is a serious concern, because this condition can lead to blood clots that may form in other areas of your body. If you have any reason to believe that the numbness you're feeling is related to your circulatory system and veins, you need to address it right away with a medical professional.
Neurological Issues
Some instances of foot numbness can be traced back to neurological problems. Whether the numbness appears in only one foot or in both, it may be the result of a neurological condition like diabetic neuropathy or peripheral neuropathy. In addition, you'll want to rule out the possibility of a condition like lupus or Multiple Sclerosis.
Working with a healthcare professional is the best way to narrow down the cause of your foot numbness. Talk with your healthcare team today to see what could be causing your problems. With the right testing and a physical evaluation, you're sure to get to the bottom of the issue and find the right treatment plan.
Contact a center like Advanced Foot & Ankle Centers of Illinois to learn more.
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