What Causes Tingling in Feet?
Tingling in the feet is a sensation or symptom that is described when there is the abnormal firing of the nerves in the body. Tingling can be felt in certain parts of the foot without affecting other parts depending on the condition involved.
Here are some of the common causes of tingling in the feet.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which a nerve known as the posterior tibial compresses while traveling through the tarsal tunnel. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affects the ankles and feet. it can cause numbness, burning, and tingling that goes down the side of the ankle into the bottom of the foot and the toes.
Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, orthotic shoes, or in some cases, surgery.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's Phenomenon is a condition in which blood flow decreases to the fingers, toes, or other areas of the body. It occurs due to blood vessel spasms in the affected areas. Raynaud's Phenomenon makes the small capillaries in the toes contract due to stimuli like cold temperatures or stress. It can create tingling or numbness in the toes.
Treatment initially involves warming the areas with socks and Epsom salt soaks. However, if the condition doesn't approve, a podiatrist will check for autoimmune diseases linked to Raynaud's Phenomenon, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves located outside the brain or the spine (otherwise known as "peripheral nerves") have damage. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy affecting the feet include tingling, numbness, burning, cramping, and the sensation of something crawling on the skin.
Peripheral neuropathy has many causes, and it may be a sign of undiagnosed diabetes. If left untreated, tingling can then lead to numbness which may or may not be reversible, depending on the root cause. Treatment is geared at addressing the root cause of peripheral neuropathy. For instance, for people with diabetes, keeping the glucose levels in the blood low and under control will help to minimize tingling associated with peripheral neuropathy.
When to see a doctor
It's important to see a doctor if you've experienced tingling in your feet for longer than a week. If it's something that's going to go away, typically it'll go away quickly, but if it's been going on for more than a week, it's a good idea to see a doctor and get worked up to figure out what's actually going on.