Numbness in the Left Foot: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Numbness in the Left Foot: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： It seems to be a circulation issue. <br>Try soaking in warm water to see if it improves. <br>Avoid maintaining one position for too long (generally, you should change positions every 30 minutes).

Numbness in the left foot?

Hello Dr.
Yeh,
Recently, I have been experiencing numbness in the left sole of my foot before bedtime, particularly on the left half of the sole near the little toe.
However, I can still move my calf and foot without any issues related to motor control.
During the day, I experience this sensation less frequently (I believe this may be due to the coverage of shoes and socks, which makes it less noticeable).
About one to two weeks ago, I measured my blood pressure and found it to be low (90/56).
Additionally, I usually take cold showers; could this have an impact?
I would appreciate your response.
Thank you.
If a consultation is necessary, should I see a neurologist? Thank you.

Lan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/17

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology

Hello: It seems to be a circulation issue.
Try soaking in warm water to see if it improves.
Avoid maintaining one position for too long (generally, you should change positions every 30 minutes).

Reply Date: 2006/10/17

More Info

Numbness in the foot, particularly in the area near the little toe, can be concerning and may arise from various underlying causes. Given your description, it’s essential to consider several factors that could contribute to this sensation.

Firstly, the numbness you experience in your left foot, especially near the little toe, could be related to nerve compression or irritation. This can occur due to various reasons, including poor footwear, prolonged pressure on the foot, or even issues stemming from the spine, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, which can affect nerve pathways. The fact that you can still move your leg and foot indicates that there is no complete nerve damage, but it does not rule out the possibility of nerve irritation.

Additionally, your recent discovery of low blood pressure (90/56) could also play a role in your symptoms. Low blood pressure can lead to reduced blood flow to the extremities, which may cause sensations of numbness or tingling. It’s important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and discuss any significant fluctuations with your healthcare provider.

The practice of taking cold showers may also contribute to your symptoms. Cold exposure can cause blood vessels to constrict, potentially leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities, which might exacerbate feelings of numbness or tingling. If you notice that your symptoms worsen after cold exposure, it may be worth considering warmer bathing options.

In terms of when to seek medical help, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if the numbness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, pain, or changes in bowel or bladder control. Given your symptoms, starting with a visit to a neurologist would be appropriate. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, neurological assessment, and possibly imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any structural issues affecting the nerves.

In summary, while occasional numbness in the foot can be benign, persistent or recurrent symptoms warrant further investigation. Factors such as nerve compression, low blood pressure, and environmental influences like cold exposure should be considered. Consulting a neurologist will help you determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options. Meanwhile, ensuring proper footwear, avoiding prolonged pressure on your feet, and monitoring your blood pressure can be beneficial steps to take.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Left-Sided Numbness: Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I've been troubled by numbness in my hands and feet for many years. It's primarily on the left side that I experience this numbness. During these episodes, my hands and feet involuntarily tense up, causing my calf muscles to become very tight. The numbnes...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
It is difficult to understand solely from the medical history; a neurological examination is necessary to determine if there are any peripheral nerve issues.

Understanding Left-Side Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Dr. Jiang, I would like to ask about a condition I've been experiencing recently. For the past few days, when I wake up in the morning, I feel numbness from my left elbow to my fingers, and also from my left ankle to my toes. Today, I even felt numbness in my left face...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Ms. Liu, You mentioned that "the left elbow to the fingers often feels numb," which may suggest a common condition of ulnar nerve compression. However, you also noted that "even the left side of the face feels numb, and there are involuntary twitching episod...

Understanding Left Leg Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Dear Dr. Chiu: I am a working woman and my job involves working in an office. Recently, I have been experiencing numbness and weakness in my left foot. My overall health has always been good, so why is this happening?

Dr. Qiu Yushu reply Neurosurgery
Hello: Regarding your concerns, I recommend that you visit an outpatient clinic for a proper examination.

Understanding Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor for Relief

Hello Dr. Lai: I have been experiencing soreness and pain in my left foot for the past two months, particularly near the lower back area. This discomfort radiates down to my left heel, and whenever I sit for more than ten minutes, I feel weakness and soreness when I stand up. Whi...

Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, the individual is experiencing numbness and tingling in the left foot that extends to the left heel, which worsens with prolonged sitting. Based on the patient's complaints, the most likely causes are nerve compression symptoms or poor bl...