Body Sensations: From Feet to Head and Mental Health

Q: Body Sensations: From Feet to Head and Mental Health

Hello, Cicico： Everyone has some unique habits, and as long as they are not too extreme and do not significantly affect overall interpersonal, occupational, or social functioning, they can be overlooked. <br>However, if they severely impact these areas, they may fall under "obses

A sensation that travels from the soles of the feet to the top of the head?

Since childhood, I have often experienced a sensation of numbness throughout my body.
Sometimes, when I walk and my right foot steps on the edge of a brick, I feel a strong urge for my left foot to step on it as well.
I even intentionally adjust my stride to meet this expectation.
Although most of the time I function normally, once I become aware of my walking issues, it becomes relentless.
In the office, I tend to use my middle finger for the mouse scroll wheel, but I deliberately switch to my index finger; otherwise, I feel an annoying sensation that travels from the soles of my feet to the top of my head, making it difficult to concentrate on other tasks.
Due to unpleasant experiences in my childhood, I have disliked being touched by others for over a decade.
After starting a relationship, I also feel a tingling sensation from simple physical contact, wanting to pull away.
While I am mostly normal, it is challenging to escape that vortex of discomfort when I get caught in it.
Is this a psychological issue or a neurological problem? What should I do?

cicico, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/11

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry

Hello, Cicico: Everyone has some unique habits, and as long as they are not too extreme and do not significantly affect overall interpersonal, occupational, or social functioning, they can be overlooked.
However, if they severely impact these areas, they may fall under "obsessive thoughts" or "compulsive behaviors," which would require treatment.
As for the dislike of intimate physical interactions between men and women, the reasons need further exploration to determine if there are any underlying psychological issues.
It is also possible that your so-called boyfriend may not be the prince charming you envision.
Thank you for your letter!

Reply Date: 2005/10/11

More Info

Your experiences with bodily sensations, particularly the feelings of tingling or discomfort that arise in specific situations, can be quite complex and multifaceted. It seems that you have been dealing with these sensations for a long time, and they are closely tied to your mental state and past experiences. Let's break down your situation and explore possible explanations and recommendations.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Sensory Processing: The sensations you describe, such as the tingling feeling when your feet touch certain surfaces or the discomfort when using your fingers in a specific way, may be related to sensory processing issues. This can occur when the brain has difficulty interpreting sensory information from the body. In some cases, this can lead to heightened sensitivity to touch or pressure, which might explain your aversion to being touched and the overwhelming feelings that arise in certain situations.

2. Anxiety and Avoidance: Your history of discomfort with touch and the need to control your movements may indicate an underlying anxiety or obsessive-compulsive tendency. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to sensations of tingling or discomfort, especially when you are in situations that remind you of past negative experiences. The need to align your steps or adjust your finger movements could be a coping mechanism to manage anxiety, but it can also become a source of stress when it interferes with your daily life.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Patterns: The repetitive thoughts and behaviors you describe, such as the need to adjust your steps or finger movements, may be indicative of cognitive patterns that are difficult to break. These patterns can be reinforced by anxiety, leading to a cycle where the more you focus on these sensations, the more intense they become.

Recommendations
1. Seek Professional Help: It would be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can help you explore these sensations in the context of your overall mental health. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for addressing anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. A therapist can work with you to develop strategies to manage your anxiety and reduce the impact of these sensations on your life.

2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and sensations without becoming overwhelmed by them. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help you manage anxiety and reduce the intensity of your physical sensations.

3. Gradual Exposure: If certain sensations or situations trigger discomfort, gradual exposure to these triggers in a controlled manner can help desensitize your response over time. This should be done with the guidance of a therapist to ensure it is approached safely and effectively.

4. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. Activities like yoga or tai chi, which emphasize body awareness and relaxation, may be particularly beneficial for you.

5. Journaling: Keeping a journal of your experiences, thoughts, and feelings can help you identify patterns and triggers related to your sensations. This can also serve as a useful tool to discuss with your therapist.

Conclusion
Your experiences with bodily sensations are likely influenced by a combination of sensory processing issues, anxiety, and cognitive patterns. Seeking professional help is crucial in understanding and addressing these sensations effectively. With the right support and strategies, you can work towards reducing the impact of these sensations on your daily life and improving your overall mental health. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective treatments available to help you navigate these challenges.

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