Numbness in Both Feet: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Numbness in Both Feet: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： <br>1. <br>For numbness in the feet, a face-to-face consultation is necessary to conduct a physical examination and neurological assessment to determine the nature of the numbness. <br>What is the extent of the numbness? Did it occur suddenly or gradually? How long does it

Numbness in both feet?

Doctor, I have been feeling numbness in both of my legs recently.
What could be the cause? Should I go to the hospital for an examination? What kind of tests should I undergo?

Dai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/03

Dr. Jiang Hezhou reply Neurology

Hello:
1.
For numbness in the feet, a face-to-face consultation is necessary to conduct a physical examination and neurological assessment to determine the nature of the numbness.
What is the extent of the numbness? Did it occur suddenly or gradually? How long does it last? Does it happen repeatedly? Is it progressively worsening? Is there any accompanying pain or other sensory disturbances? Are there any associated weakness or issues with bowel or bladder function? Are there symptoms in the upper limbs or head? Under what circumstances does it get triggered or worsen? What measures can be taken to alleviate the discomfort? Is there any relevant history of exposure, medication, medical conditions, or family history?
2.
It is advisable to seek medical attention for examination and evaluation! If necessary, further neurological tests or other relevant examinations can be arranged to determine the underlying cause and provide targeted treatment!

Reply Date: 2010/09/03

More Info

Numbness in both feet can be a concerning symptom that may indicate various underlying medical conditions. It is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Numbness, or paresthesia, can result from issues related to the nervous system, circulation, or musculoskeletal system.
Common causes of numbness in the feet include:
1. Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition often results from diabetes, leading to nerve damage. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet. Other causes of peripheral neuropathy can include alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies (especially B vitamins), and certain medications.

2. Herniated Discs: A herniated disc in the lumbar spine can compress spinal nerves, leading to numbness or tingling in the legs and feet. This is often accompanied by back pain.

3. Circulatory Issues: Conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) can reduce blood flow to the legs and feet, causing numbness. Other vascular issues, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can also lead to numbness, especially if accompanied by swelling or pain.

4. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This autoimmune disease can affect the central nervous system and may present with numbness or tingling in various body parts, including the feet.

5. Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins, particularly B12, can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness in the extremities.

6. Infections: Certain infections, such as Lyme disease or shingles, can cause nerve damage and result in numbness.

7. Anxiety and Stress: Sometimes, anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause temporary numbness or tingling in the extremities.

Given the range of potential causes, it is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience persistent or worsening numbness in your feet. You should particularly seek help if:
- The numbness is accompanied by weakness or paralysis.

- You experience sudden numbness in one leg or foot, which could indicate a stroke or other serious condition.

- There are changes in bowel or bladder control.

- You have a history of diabetes, vascular disease, or other relevant medical conditions.

When you visit a healthcare provider, they may recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. These may include:
1. Blood Tests: To check for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, and other metabolic conditions.

2. Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): This test measures how well electrical signals travel through your nerves, helping to identify nerve damage.

3. Electromyography (EMG): This test assesses the electrical activity of muscles and can help diagnose conditions affecting muscle and nerve function.

4. MRI or CT Scans: Imaging studies can help visualize the spine and brain to rule out structural issues, such as herniated discs or tumors.

5. Ultrasound: This can be used to assess blood flow in the arteries and veins of the legs.

In summary, numbness in both feet can arise from various causes, and it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. If you are experiencing these symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention to ensure proper care and management.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Hand and Foot Numbness: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor: Recently, whenever I exert force with my hand, I experience numbness in my hand, which then radiates to the soles of my feet, causing them to feel numb as well. I am unsure what the cause might be. Should I seek medical attention? Thank you! Sophia

Dr. Du Haojie reply Neurology
If there is symmetrical numbness in both hands and feet, it is usually indicative of metabolic peripheral neuropathy. If numbness occurs in one hand or one foot, it may suggest a localized compressive neuropathy. If numbness affects one side of the body, central nervous system pa...

Understanding Numbness in Limbs: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello Doctor, I felt a tingling sensation below my left knee tonight. After taking a hot bath, I noticed a slight tingling in all my limbs. (Earlier today, I experienced a feeling of tightness and pain in my chest.) The last time I had a similar situation was on the 17th of this ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: You mentioned experiencing severe pain in your left foot. The next morning, you felt numbness from your left fingers to your wrist and in your left calf. There is also a feeling of pressure and pain in the left side of your chest (above the chest). It may be necessary to c...

Understanding Numbness in Your Foot: When to Seek Medical Help

Recently, my right foot has been experiencing numbness while standing. I exercised twice a week before, but I haven't been active since November. Could this be related to lack of exercise? If not, which specialist should I see? Thank you!

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
It is advisable to seek a nearby medical examination.

Understanding Foot and Finger Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help

On August 26th, I rolled my left foot twice in a row, and since then, I have been unable to lift my left foot while standing, making activities like putting on socks very inconvenient. When sitting, the situation is slightly better, but I still have significantly less range of mo...

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics
Hello, it is recommended to see an orthopedic specialist first.