Foot Pain and Numbness: Is Cervical Disc Herniation the Cause?

Q: Foot Pain and Numbness: Is Cervical Disc Herniation the Cause?

Hello： Cervical spinal cord lesions presenting solely with foot symptoms are rare, but they can occur. <br>It is recommended that if you 1. <br>experience severe and intolerable symptoms, and 2. <br>MRI imaging shows significant neural compression that can explain your condition,

Only experiencing numbness in the soles of the feet and a tingling sensation in the lower limbs?

Hello Doctor.
Since November 2021, I have experienced sudden pain and numbness in the left sole of my foot while playing basketball.
After a month, the right foot also began to feel slightly numb, with a burning sensation and occasional tingling.
I have consulted many orthopedic and neurosurgeons, and underwent various tests including X-rays, nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and MRI scans, all of which showed no significant issues.
There were no abnormalities in my thoracic or lumbar spine.
Some doctors suggested sciatica, while others pointed to issues with the sole of my foot.
I have undergone numerous physical therapy sessions and medication treatments for both my feet and lower back, but there has been no improvement.
It wasn't until early August 2022, when I had a full spine MRI at a spinal orthopedic clinic, that a herniated disc in my cervical spine was discovered.
At that point, I realized that I had been experiencing occasional numbness in my left upper back, although my arms showed no symptoms.
My question is, could the herniated disc in my cervical spine be responsible for my current symptoms? Is there a chance for recovery through rehabilitation, or would I need minimally invasive surgery? What is the success rate of such surgeries?

Wang Guangguo, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/14

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Cervical spinal cord lesions presenting solely with foot symptoms are rare, but they can occur.
It is recommended that if you 1.
experience severe and intolerable symptoms, and 2.
MRI imaging shows significant neural compression that can explain your condition, you may consider minimally invasive cervical spine surgery.
If performed by an experienced neurosurgeon, the general risks are low.
Best wishes, Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang, Director of the Spine Neurosurgery Department, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/08/14

More Info

Cervical disc herniation can indeed lead to symptoms that manifest in the lower extremities, including foot pain and numbness. This phenomenon, while less common than lumbar disc herniation causing similar symptoms, is not unheard of. The cervical spine houses the spinal cord and the nerve roots that branch out to the arms and legs. When a cervical disc herniates, it can compress the spinal cord or the nerve roots, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms, including pain, numbness, and tingling sensations that can radiate down to the feet.

In your case, the sudden onset of left foot pain and subsequent right foot symptoms, coupled with the findings of a cervical disc herniation, suggests that there may be a connection. While the typical presentation of cervical disc issues often involves upper extremity symptoms (like pain or numbness in the arms), it is possible for these symptoms to extend to the lower body due to the complex interconnections of the nervous system. The nerves that exit the cervical spine can influence sensations and motor functions in the lower limbs, especially if there is significant compression or irritation.

Regarding your treatment options, rehabilitation can be beneficial. Physical therapy often focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall function. Techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like heat or electrical stimulation may help alleviate symptoms. However, if conservative management does not yield significant improvement, surgical options may need to be considered.

Microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, is often performed to relieve pressure on the affected nerve root or spinal cord by removing the herniated portion of the disc. The success rate for this type of surgery is generally high, especially when performed by an experienced neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal surgery. Many patients experience significant relief from their symptoms and improved quality of life post-surgery.

It's also essential to consider that other factors could contribute to your symptoms. For instance, if you have been diagnosed with conditions like sciatica or peripheral neuropathy, these could also explain the pain and numbness in your feet. A thorough evaluation by a specialist, including a review of your imaging studies and clinical symptoms, is crucial to determine the most appropriate course of action.

In summary, cervical disc herniation can potentially cause foot pain and numbness, and while rehabilitation is a valid first step, surgical intervention may be necessary if conservative measures fail. Consulting with a spine specialist who can provide a comprehensive assessment and discuss the risks and benefits of surgery will be vital in your decision-making process.

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