You know that feeling when your feet are asleep? Sometimes that feeling just doesn’t go away and if that’s the case, there may be more to the story. Here are 5 reasons you may be experiencing tingling in your feet and toes.

It may be your shoes

Systematically wearing constrictive footwear may be the cause of that tingling sensation in your feet. Historically speaking, ‘work’ shoes, ie. high heels or loafers, do not lend to a lot of extra space for the feet. As a result, you can often experience nerve compression. When a nerve is compressed, you will feel pins and needles. Look for shoes that are wide enough so that your feet are comfortable, not squashed; after a few days the tingling should cease. If it continues, however, it may be time to seek medical attention.

Bunions

Another common aggravator in nerve compression are bunions. Bunions are bony bumps on the big toe joint. Overtime, as they gain mass, they can force your  big toe to push against the rest of your toes, eventually compromising the nerve, sometimes causing tingling and numbness. A toe spacer can take the pressure off, or try changing your shoes, using orthotics, or icing. But if you’re still having pins and needles, surgery may be necessary. Consult with your physician to explore options.

Herniated Disc

One of the most common nerves to be aggravated from activity is the Sciatic nerve. It runs from the lower back to the toes. A herniated disc occurs when the rubbery cushions (discs) in your spine push into the spinal canal, irritating nearby nerves (ie. Sicatica). Treatment for a herniated disc varies from resting to surgery, it may be time to visit your doctor if you think this may be the culprit.

Nerve irritation or damagae

Irritated Nerves (neuroma) can result in numbness or shooting pain. Typically the pain is centralized to the third or fourth toes and can be moderate to severe depending on the severity of the irritation. Common culprits: Any repetitive and high-impact sport or tight shoes that compress the nerve. Opt for shoes that are wider in the front or, to alleviate pressure, try an insert called a metatarsal pad (that goes on the ball of your foot).

Nerve damage is common in diabetics or those that suffer from alcoholism, or undergoing intense drug treatments, such as chemotherapy. The damage is best treated by figuring out what the underlying cause is first—but may also require a trip to the neurologist who can prescribe nerve pain medications.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS)

TTS, the foot version of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that we chatted about last week, occurs when the nerve in the tarsal tunnel is compressed. With TTS, heel and arch pain along with numbness and tingling can occur. While not overly common, tight shoes, trauma or lower body swelling are sometimes attributes. Arch supports and calf stretches are common treatments for TTS.

As with any prolonged condition or symptoms, it is always a good idea to discuss with your doctor to determine proper treatment and care. If you have any questions please reach out!