Spring is here. Friday, March 20, 2015, marks the spring equinox and the official start to the spring season. This season is known as a time of rebirth, when plants come back after winter. In Texas, it’s also full of comfortable weather before the hot days of summer roll around. It’s a great time to enjoy being active outdoors. Just be careful if you develop tingling, pins-and-needles sensations in your lower limbs. Not only is this uncomfortable, it can be a sign of bigger problems. Tingling toes can be caused by many different things, and identifying your cause can help you treat it.
Tingling in the feet and toes can be mild or severe, just like the possible underlying causes. Some are more serious than others. Typically, though, tingling toes are related to nerve or circulation issues. Here are a few of the most common possible sources of an uncomfortable tingling sensation in your lower limbs:
Peripheral Neuropathy – This is damage to the nerves in the extremities, often from something like diabetes. It causes nerves to misfire uncomfortably. Pinched Nerves – Nerves are sensitive, so if they are pinched or compressed for too long, they can become damaged and start making your feet feel tingly. Systemic Diseases – Some disease that affect the whole body can leave your feet feeling funny. Multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, AIDS, shingles, strokes, and even just poor circulation could all contribute to a pins-and-needles sensation in the lower limbs. Vitamin Deficiencies – Vitamins E, B, and niacin are necessary for normal nerve function. Levels that are too low can contribute to neuropathy. Injuries – Conditions like tarsal tunnel and foot fractures can injure nerves, leading to painful tingling.
Taking care of tingling toes does mean identifying the underlying problem so it can be treated. As with any potential nerve issues, the sooner the problem is dealt with, the better it is for your feet. Let Dr. Darren Silvester and our team at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX, help you mange any foot discomfort. Use our online request form or call (830) 569-3338 to make an appointment with us.
