How to get rid of numbness in feet

Why are My Legs and Feet Numb?

From Medical News Today; Medically reviewed by Seunggu Han, M.D. — Written by Jennifer Huizenon January 22, 2020

A person may feel numbness in their legs and feet due to sitting in a position that puts too much pressure on the nerves or reduces blood flow. However, long-lasting or unexplained numbness may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Long-term numbness or a tingling feeling in the legs and feet may be due to conditions such as multiple sclerosis(MS), diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or fibromyalgia. The sensation may be felt in the whole leg, below the knee, or in different areas of the foot.

In this article, we look at some of the reasons why a person might experience numbness in the legs and feet, along with symptoms and treatments.

Causes of numbness in legs and feet

Crossing the legs for a long time may cause numbness and tingling in the legs and feet.

Often, a person’s legs go numb temporarily because of their posture. However, chronic or long-lasting numbness in the feet and legs is almost always a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Conditions associated with feet and leg numbness include:

Posture

Postural habits that put pressure on nerves or reduce blood flow in the lower limbs are the most common cause of temporary numbness in the legs and feet. Many people say their leg has “fallen asleep,” and the medical term is transient (temporary) paresthesia.

Habits that can cause the feet and legs to fall asleep include:

crossing the legs for too long
sitting or kneeling for long periods
sitting on the feet
wearing pants, socks, or shoes that are too tight

Injury

Injuries to the torso, spine, hips, legs, ankles, and feet can put pressure on nerves and cause the feet and legs to go numb.

Diabetes

Some people with diabetes develop a type of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet, and if severe, the legs as well.

Lower back issues and sciatica

Problems in the lower back, such as a breakdown or herniation of spinal discs, can cause compression of the nerves going to the legs, leading to numbness or sensory disturbances.

Sciatica is the name for irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the legs. If this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, a person may experience numbness or tingling in their legs or feet.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve that runs down the back of the leg and along the inside of the ankle and into the foot is compressed, squeezed, or damaged.

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. People with tarsal tunnel syndrome tend to feel numbness, burning, tingling, and shooting pain in their ankles, heels, and feet.

Peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) causes the peripheral blood arteries in the legs, arms, and stomach to narrow, reducing the amount of blood they can pump and reducing blood flow. The legs are one of the most common parts of the body impacted by PAD.

Most people with PAD experience pain and cramping in their legs and hips when they are walking or going upstairs. Some people with PAD also experience leg numbness and weakness.

Symptoms of PAD typically go away after a few minutes of rest.

Tumors or other abnormal growths

Tumors, cysts, abscesses, and benign (non-cancerous) growths can put pressure on the brain, spinal cord, or any part of the legs and feet. This pressure can restrict blood flow to the legs and feet, causing numbness.

Alcohol use

The toxins in alcohol can cause nerve damage that is associated with numbness, especially in the feet.

Chronic or excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to nerve damage that causes numbness. This type of nerve damage is linked to reduced levels of B vitamins, such as B-1 (thiamine), B-9 (folate), and B-12, which is caused by excessive alcohol intake.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic or long-lasting condition that causes widespread body pain, aching, and tenderness. Some people with fibromyalgia also experience numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

Most people with fibromyalgia experience a variety of symptoms including:

stiffness and soreness for no apparent reason, especially in the morning or after sleeping
chronic exhaustion
memory problems and difficulty thinking clearly, sometimes called fibro-fog
restless leg syndrome

Almost everyone with fibromyalgia experiences symptoms in more than one part of their body for at least 3 months at a time. If numbness in the legs and feet is not accompanied by any other symptoms or is not long-term, it is unlikely to be caused by fibromyalgia.

Multiple sclerosis

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience sensory nerve damage that can cause numbness in a small region of their body or whole limbs. Although numbness associated with MS often only lasts for a short period, it can last long enough to become disabling.

Stokes and mini-strokes

Strokes or mini-strokes can cause brain damage that may affect how the mind interprets and processes nerve signals. A stroke or mini-stroke can sometimes cause temporary or long-term numbness in parts of the body.

Symptoms

Numbness is just one of the many symptoms associated with temporary and chronic numbness.

Many people with numbness in their legs and feet experience additional symptoms at the same time or intermittingly, such as:

tingling
burning
tickling
itching
a crawling feeling under the skin

Treatment

The proper treatment for numb legs and feet depends entirely on the cause.

Medication

Medical options for long-term numbness in the legs and feet include:

Antidepressants. Some antidepressants, such as duloxetine and milnacipran, have been approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia.
Corticosteroids. Some corticosteroids can help reduce chronic inflammation and numbness associated with conditions such as MS.
Gabapentin and pregabalin. Medications that block or change nerve signaling may help reduce numbness associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, MS, and diabetic neuropathy.

Home remedies

Home remedies that may help to relieve uncomfortable numbness in the legs and feet include:

Rest. Many of the conditions that cause leg and foot numbness, such as nerve pressure, improve with rest.
Ice. Ice can help reduce swelling that can put pressure on nerves. Apply cold compresses or wrapped icepacks to numb legs and feet for 15 minutes at a time several times daily.
Heat. Heat can sometimes help loosen stiff, sore, or tense muscles that can put pressure on nerves and cause numbness. However, avoid overheating numb legs and feet, as this may or worsen inflammation and cause pain and numbness.
Massage. Massaging numb legs and feet helps improve blood flow and may reduce symptoms.
Exercise. A lack of proper exercise can weaken the heart and blood vessels, reducing their ability to pump blood to the lower limbs. Activities such as yoga, Pilates, and tai chi can promote blood flow and reduce chronic inflammation or pain.
Supportive devices. Braces and specially designed footwear can help reduce nerve pressure caused by conditions such as injury, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or flat feet.
Epsom salt baths. Epsom salts contain magnesium, a compound known to increase blood flow and circulation. Epsom salts are available for purchase online.
Mental techniques and stress reduction. People with conditions that cause chronic numbness, such as MS and fibromyalgia, should try to focus on the fact that the periods of numbness are often short-lived and go away on their own. Stress also tends to make the symptoms of central nervous system disorders worse.
Sleep. Many of the chronic conditions associated with leg and feet numbness are known to worsen with a lack of proper sleep.
A healthful, balanced diet. Malnutrition, especially vitamin B deficiencies, can cause nerve damage leading to numbness. Getting enough vitamins and other nutrients can also reduce chronic inflammation and pain, which can cause numbness.
Alcohol reduction or avoidance. Alcohol contains toxins that can cause nerve damage and numbness. Alcohol also usually makes the symptoms of chronic pain and inflammatory conditions worse and can even cause flare-ups of symptoms.

When to see a doctor

Talk with a doctor about numbness in the legs and feet that:

is not related to postural habits or lifestyle factors, such as tight clothing and footwear
lasts for long periods
is accompanied by any other chronic symptoms
is accompanied by permanent or long-term changes in the color, shape, or temperature of the legs and feet

Numbness in the legs and feet is a common disorder, though when it becomes chronic, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Anyone who experiences numbness that is unexplained, persistent, frequent, painful, disabling, or accompanied by other chronic symptoms should see a doctor for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:
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Address
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Hours
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Numbness in legs and feet: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

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Long-term numbness or a tingling feeling in the legs and feet may be due to conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or fibromyalgia. The sensation may be felt in the whole leg, below the knee, or in different areas of the foot.

In this article, we look at some of the reasons why a person might experience numbness in the legs and feet, along with symptoms and treatments.

Share on PinterestCrossing the legs for a long time may cause numbness and tingling in the legs and feet.

Often, a person’s legs go numb temporarily because of their posture. However, chronic or long-lasting numbness in the feet and legs is almost always a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Conditions associated with feet and leg numbness include:

Posture

Habits that can cause the feet and legs to fall asleep include:

crossing the legs for too long
sitting or kneeling for long periods
sitting on the feet
wearing pants, socks, or shoes that are too tight

Injury

Injuries to the torso, spine, hips, legs, ankles, and feet can put pressure on nerves and cause the feet and legs to go numb.

Diabetes

Some people with diabetes develop a type of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet, and if severe, the legs as well.

Lower back issues and sciatica

Problems in the lower back, such as a breakdown or herniation of spinal discs, can cause compression of the nerves going to the legs, leading to numbness or sensory disturbances.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve that runs down the back of the leg and along the inside of the ankle and into the foot is compressed, squeezed, or damaged.

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. People with tarsal tunnel syndrome tend to feel numbness, burning, tingling, and shooting pain in their ankles, heels, and feet.

Peripheral artery disease

Most people with PAD experience pain and cramping in their legs and hips when they are walking or going upstairs. Some people with PAD also experience leg numbness and weakness.

Symptoms of PAD typically go away after a few minutes of rest.

Tumors or other abnormal growths

Alcohol use

The toxins in alcohol can cause nerve damage that is associated with numbness, especially in the feet.

Fibromyalgia

Most people with fibromyalgia experience a variety of symptoms including:

stiffness and soreness for no apparent reason, especially in the morning or after sleeping
chronic exhaustion
memory problems and difficulty thinking clearly, sometimes called fibro-fog
restless leg syndrome

Multiple sclerosis

Stokes and mini-strokes

Share on PinterestNumbness in the legs and feet may be accompanied by tingling or itching sensations.

Numbness is just one of the many symptoms associated with temporary and chronic numbness.

Many people with numbness in their legs and feet experience additional symptoms at the same time or intermittingly, such as:

tingling
burning
tickling
itching
a crawling feeling under the skin

The proper treatment for numb legs and feet depends entirely on the cause.

Medication

Medical options for long-term numbness in the legs and feet include:

Antidepressants. Some antidepressants, such as duloxetine and milnacipran, have been approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia.
Corticosteroids. Some corticosteroids can help reduce chronic inflammation and numbness associated with conditions such as MS.
Gabapentin and pregabalin. Medications that block or change nerve signaling may help reduce numbness associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, MS, and diabetic neuropathy.

Home remedies

Home remedies that may help to relieve uncomfortable numbness in the legs and feet include:

Rest. Many of the conditions that cause leg and foot numbness, such as nerve pressure, improve with rest.
Ice. Ice can help reduce swelling that can put pressure on nerves. Apply cold compresses or wrapped icepacks to numb legs and feet for 15 minutes at a time several times daily.
Heat. Heat can sometimes help loosen stiff, sore, or tense muscles that can put pressure on nerves and cause numbness. However, avoid overheating numb legs and feet, as this may or worsen inflammation and cause pain and numbness.
Massage. Massaging numb legs and feet helps improve blood flow and may reduce symptoms.
Exercise. A lack of proper exercise can weaken the heart and blood vessels, reducing their ability to pump blood to the lower limbs. Activities such as yoga, Pilates, and tai chi can promote blood flow and reduce chronic inflammation or pain.
Supportive devices. Braces and specially designed footwear can help reduce nerve pressure caused by conditions such as injury, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or flat feet.
Epsom salt baths. Epsom salts contain magnesium, a compound known to increase blood flow and circulation. Epsom salts are available for purchase online.
Mental techniques and stress reduction. People with conditions that cause chronic numbness, such as MS and fibromyalgia, should try to focus on the fact that the periods of numbness are often short-lived and go away on their own. Stress also tends to make the symptoms of central nervous system disorders worse.
Sleep. Many of the chronic conditions associated with leg and feet numbness are known to worsen with a lack of proper sleep.
A healthful, balanced diet. Malnutrition, especially vitamin B deficiencies, can cause nerve damage leading to numbness. Getting enough vitamins and other nutrients can also reduce chronic inflammation and pain, which can cause numbness.
Alcohol reduction or avoidance. Alcohol contains toxins that can cause nerve damage and numbness. Alcohol also usually makes the symptoms of chronic pain and inflammatory conditions worse and can even cause flare-ups of symptoms.

Alternative therapies

Share on PinterestMassage therapy may reduce the symptoms of conditions that can cause numbness.

Some alternative therapies have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of conditions known to cause numbness in the legs and feet. Therapies include:

massage
reflexology
acupuncture
biofeedback
hydrotherapy
mindfulness meditation
guided imagery
vitamin B supplementation (especially B-3, B-6, and B-12)

Talk with a doctor about numbness in the legs and feet that:

is not related to postural habits or lifestyle factors, such as tight clothing and footwear
lasts for long periods
is accompanied by any other chronic symptoms
is accompanied by permanent or long-term changes in the color, shape, or temperature of the legs and feet

Numbness in the legs and feet is a common disorder, though when it becomes chronic, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Read the article in Spanish.

Numbness of the legs and arms - treatment, symptoms, causes, diagnosis

Numbness is an abnormal sensation that can occur in any part of the body, but is most often felt in the arms and legs. The symptom of numbness is often accompanied by tingling, and can range from fairly harmless, such as in the hands on cooling, to a sign of a serious, life-threatening condition. Numbness is a fairly common symptom. Numbness of the extremities is often accompanied by an emotional context with a sense of detachment and a decrease in emotional coloring, which is usually a sign of depression. In a physical context, numbness is usually the result of damage, circulatory problems, or pathological changes to certain nerves.

In addition, there may be periodic bouts of numbness and tingling due to the presence of certain health problems, such as neurosis or a migraine attack. Also, episodes of numbness can occur during attacks of fear caused by the expectation of life-threatening events, and in such cases, numbness is caused by shallow breathing and affects, most often, the fingers and mouth area.

Numbness of the hands is manifested by a feeling of loss of sensation in the hands, this condition is often referred to by patients as "asleep" hands. Numbness may be accompanied by a pins and needles sensation. Often this numbness occurs after sleeping with your hands under your head. Numbness of the hands is usually caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, in which the median nerve is compressed. Most often, carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of a nerve in the carpal tunnel. In addition, hand numbness may be due to trauma, hypothermia, or systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus. If hand numbness is accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, palpitations, then this may be a sign of acute, life-threatening conditions and requires emergency medical attention.

Numbness in the legs is a loss of feeling or sensation in the legs, resulting from a breakdown in the connection between the peripheral nerves and the central nervous system. Usually, leg numbness is associated with impaired circulation in the lower extremities. Most often, this numbness occurs when sitting cross-legged for a long period of time. In such cases, lifting and walking can get rid of numbness after a certain period of time. But numbness in the legs can also be a sign of serious damage to nerve fibers due to mechanical factors (disc herniation, radiculopathy) or nerve damage due to somatic diseases.

Causes

Numbness can be a sign of a wide range of diseases or conditions in which there is blood flow restriction or nerve damage.

Temporary numbness may be associated with any activity that causes prolonged pressure on the nerve(s), such as sitting cross-legged or riding a bicycle for long distances. Numbness can also occur due to moderate or severe orthopedic or vascular conditions, or conditions and diseases that cause damage to the nervous system. In some cases, numbness is a symptom of a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical attention.

Cardiovascular causes of numbness

Numbness can be caused by an interruption (absence) of blood flow to a certain area due to conditions such as:

Arteriovenous malformations
Buerger's disease
Deep vein thrombosis (thrombosis in the legs can break off, which can lead to pulmonary embolism in the lungs, heart attack, stroke)
Frostbite
Diseases of the peripheral arteries (atherosclerosis of the vessels, in which there is a narrowing of the arterial bed).
Raynaud's syndrome, in which persistent spasm of peripheral vessels occurs and blood circulation is disturbed in the distal extremities. Vasospasm is usually provoked by cold or sometimes stress.

Orthopedic causes of numbness

Numbness can also be caused by minor or major orthopedic conditions that cause nerve damage:

Whiplash in the neck
Bone fractures
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Degenerative diseases of the intervertebral disc
Herniated disc
Compression pinched nerve
Osteoporosis

Neurological causes of numbness

Numbness due to nerve compression or nerve damage may be due to diseases such as:

Alcoholism
Brain tumors
Diabetic neuropathy
Encephalitis
Heavy metal poisoning such as lead poisoning
Hypothyroidism
Multiple sclerosis
Peripheral neuropathy
Spinal cord injury or tumors
Stroke
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Myelitis
Myelopathy
Vitamin B12 deficiency

Numbness during pregnancy

Pregnant women face many changes in their bodies, and numbness is one of them. Some pregnant women develop carpal tunnel syndrome and this is thought to be due to water retention in the body during pregnancy.

As the fetus develops, fluid accumulates in the body, tissues swell, including in the wrist area, compression of the median nerve occurs and carpal tunnel syndrome develops. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are more pronounced in the morning, as there is an accumulation of fluid in the body at night. As a rule, the syndrome of the carpal tunnel of pregnancy is cured on its own after delivery.

Numbness in children

There are many reasons why children may experience numbness in various parts of the body. Malnutrition, lack of vitamins and minerals can cause numbness in the lower extremities, this is especially true for a lack of B vitamins. Sports injuries can also cause numbness. Therefore, in childhood, parents need to pay attention to children's complaints of numbness, which lasts more than a few minutes and may be a sign of damage to ligaments, tendons or bone fractures. Often, anxiety in childhood can be a source of numbness of the lips and face.

Symptoms

Numbness is usually due to poor circulation in a certain area or nerve damage. Sensory disturbances (numbness) can also be the result of infection, inflammation, trauma, and other pathological processes. In most cases, numbness is associated with non-life-threatening conditions, but it can also be a sign of a stroke or tumor.

Numbness in the extremities is often associated with pain or may be accompanied by other sensory disturbances such as burning, tingling. Strokes also present with movement and speech disorders. Depending on the cause, numbness may disappear quickly, for example numbness in the hand that occurs when a person is sleeping with his head on his hand, disappears after a few hand movements. Chronic numbness of the leg or arm over a long period of time, usually indicating some level of nerve damage, such as from diabetes mellitus or multiple sclerosis. Chronic numbness of the fingers may be due to nerve entrapment, as is the case with carpal tunnel syndrome. In any case, numbness that lasts for more than a few minutes is worthy of attention and medical attention. And if a person has numbness in the groin area and dysfunction of the bladder and intestines, or there are signs of paralysis, confusion, speech impairment, then in such cases it is necessary to seek emergency medical help.

Symptoms that may accompany numbness:

Anxiety
Burning sensation
Frequent urination
Increased numbness or tingling while walking
Itching
Low back pain
Muscle spasms
Neck pain
Pain in other parts of the body
Pins and needles sensation
Rash
Hypersensitivity to touch

A number of symptoms that accompany numbness can be a sign of serious conditions and this should be taken into account by the doctor, as emergency medical care and necessary medical manipulations are often required.

These symptoms are:

Lethargy or momentary loss of consciousness
Labored breathing
Difficulty walking
Dizziness
Loss of control over voluntary urination or defecation
Visual impairments
Numbness in the head, neck, back
Paralysis
Speech disorders (dysarthria)
Weakness

Diagnosis and treatment

Based on the history of the disease, examination of symptoms and physical examination, the doctor prescribes an examination plan that includes both instrumental and laboratory examinations.

To treat numbness, first of all, it is necessary to find out the cause of this symptom. If numbness is associated with circulatory disorders, diabetes or multiple sclerosis, the underlying disease is treated, both with the help of conservative methods of treatment, and with an operative method (for example, in case of vascular diseases). For orthopedic problems, such as disc herniation, osteochondrosis, treatment can also be both conservative and operative (for example, when it is necessary to decompress the nerve root).

Numbness of the leg - methods of treatment, symptoms and causes of numbness

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Internships in the USA,
Numbness

Israel, Germany

an uncomfortable feeling of loss of tissue sensitivity. Accompanied by burning, soreness, tingling, slight coldness of the extremity, a feeling of crawling. It is caused by a violation of the patency of blood vessels or nerve endings, the cause of which can be many pathological conditions of the body.

Positive dynamics in 97% of cases

The results of the treatment course are confirmed by control MRI images.

No side effects

The methods used in our clinic are safe and have no side effects.

Long-term effect

Treatment minimizes the risk of new hernias in other segments, as well as hernia recurrence.

Symptoms of numbness of the legs

An unpleasant disturbance of sensation, called numbness, passes quickly if caused by an uncomfortable posture, an anatomical temporal anomaly. With the severity of the cause of numbness, it may be accompanied by destructiveness of speech or movements, failure of the functionality of the pelvic organs and others. By the presence of additional symptoms and the severity of the condition, one can reliably judge the severity of the pathology, its threat to the patient's life. Attention is drawn to the following factors:

Increased tingling, numbness when walking;
Pain in the lumbar region;
Urge to urinate;
Appearance of rash;
Muscle spasm;
Numbness of back, neck, head;
Dizziness, loss of consciousness;
General weakness;
Difficulty walking, speech disorders;
Violations of vision, breathing.

Main causes of leg numbness

Main causes of dangerous numbness:

Diseases of the spine. Compression of nerve endings with a hernia of the spine, osteochondrosis.
Systemic diseases: diabetes, oncology and others;
Arthritis. Joint deformity affecting nerve conduction.
Pregnancy. Excess fluid in the body in women, increased load on the spinal apparatus.
Tunnel syndrome. Condition in people engaged in monotonous activities.
Circulatory disorders (Raynaud's syndrome). Sudden attacks with sharp, acute pain.
Deficiency of vitamins or minerals in the body. A consequence of systematic non-compliance with the diet, an unbalanced diet, poor digestibility of useful food elements.

Etiology at the location of numbness

Based on the location of numbness, one can judge the possible cause that caused such symptoms.

Place of numbness	Possible diseases
Thigh	Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine Small hernia of the spine complicated by osteochondrosis Spinal stenosis Inflammation of the sciatic nerve Sciatica
Hip to knee	Vitamin deficiency Significant body weight Intensive exercise Femoral head necrosis
Calves	Thrombophlebitis Varicose veins Potassium, sodium or magnesium deficiency Malfunctions of the central nervous system Passive lifestyle
Knee to foot	Herniated disc Rheumatoid arthritis Malfunctions of the peripheral nervous system of the lower extremities Raynaud's syndrome
Foot(s)	Intervertebral hernia Neoplasm Cerebral blood supply disorders Spondylosis Diabetes Raynaud's syndrome
Left leg numbness	Inguinal nerve root compression Osteochondrosis Multiple sclerosis Migraine Rheumatoid arthritis Malignant neoplasm Diabetes Vitamin D deficiency
Right leg numbness	Thrombosis Varicose veins Post-traumatic stress Osteochondrosis of the lumbar Lumbosciatica

Let us consider some particular cases in more detail.

Treatment success is 90% dependent on experience and physician qualifications.

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Chiropractor
Vertebrologist
Osteopath
Neurologist

At the consultation, we carry out a thorough diagnosis of the entire spine and each segment. We are exactly we determine which segments and nerve roots are involved and cause symptoms of pain. As a result of the consultation We give detailed recommendations for treatment and, if necessary, prescribe additional diagnostics.

We will perform functional diagnostics of the spine

Let's perform a manipulation that significantly relieves pain

We will create an individual treatment program

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Numbness of the left leg

Feeling of numbness in the left leg in the absence of other symptoms is a dangerous sign, a possible prerequisite for a stroke or an ischemic attack. Numbness of the fingers, one or more, indicates neuropathy of the tibial and peroneal nerves, the presence of an intervertebral hernia. When dislocated in the area of the fifth vertebra, a hernia can, in addition to numbness, cause tingling, cottoniness and mild soreness on the outer part of the lower leg. If the symptoms are supplemented by redness, swelling, limitation of limb mobility, a cardiological or rheumatological examination is necessary.

The femoral part of the left leg becomes numb due to degenerative-dystrophic processes associated with pinching of nerve fibers. Numbness in the lower leg indicates damage to the spine, especially if it gets worse with exercise.

Numbness of the leg below the knee

This part of the leg is extremely vulnerable to disorders of blood vessels and nerve roots. Pathology can be caused by a passive lifestyle, sedentary work. Vascular problems additionally give a burning sensation, loss of sensitivity, cold feet, tingling of the numb area.

Numbness of the right lower leg is one of the most important signals of sciatic nerve neuropathy, the cause of which is a hernial formation. The symptom is aggravated when walking, in a sitting position, often accompanied by convulsions.

The same pathologies on the left leg indicate a left-sided protrusion of the intervertebral disc. Accompanying piercing unexpected pain.

External leg numbness

This pathology has a special medical name - paresthesia, has a tumor, infectious, neurodegenerative or autoimmune nature. Accompanied by tingling, burning, and pain of varying intensity.

The sensations may be brief or prolonged, paroxysmal. The most dangerous are long-term sensory disturbances, the cause of which is the course of chronic pathologies: arthritis, osteochondrosis, diabetes, and others. Violations of cellular metabolism leads to a persistent violation of nerve impulse conduction.

Complications and consequences of numbness of the legs

The consequences of numbness of the legs are very diverse, leading to complications of the widest range. They depend on the cause that led to the malaise. The main thing that the patient needs to learn is that the presence of frequent numbness is not the norm, this is a very dangerous symptom that requires immediate medical advice. Timely examination will help to protect yourself from serious consequences.

Complications preceded by numbness of the legs:

loss of tissue sensation, partial or complete;
loss of mobility of a limb;
violation of the functionality of the pelvic organs;
leg deformity;
gangrene;
necrotizing intervertebral hernia.

Diagnosis

The initial appointment with the doctor will consist of listening to the patient's complaints and conducting an examination, on the basis of which the specialist will plan further diagnostic measures. To make a reliable diagnosis and start treatment, you need:

laboratory tests that determine the general, biochemical blood test with the calculation of glucose, lipoprotein, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. If arthritis is suspected, a urinalysis is necessary;
radiography - an accessible study that excludes trauma, inflammation, the formation of tumors, bone growths;
CT, MRI. Highly informative techniques that give a complete picture of the size, location and nature of the pathology;
electrophysiological diagnostic procedures clarifying the features of nerve damage;
Ultrasound, sonography, duplex scanning. Studies shown during the study of arterial lesions, varicose veins. An assessment of blood flow, its nature is given. Vessel sizes are measured.

Treatment of pathology

Based on the diagnosis, the cause of the numbness is identified. The specialist leading the treatment will draw up a course of therapy using drug or non-drug methods. A full course may include:

Taking medication. Effectively eliminate numbness NSAIDs, as well as steroids. Complex drug therapy involves painkillers, chondroprotectors, muscle relaxants, vitamin-mineral complexes, drugs that activate blood circulation;
Ointments, gels, creams. The affected area is rubbed with massage elements, and then medicinal formulations are applied. Means are applied once, less often twice a day;
Diet. The diet is enriched with products containing B vitamins.
Physiotherapy. Methods are used that activate blood circulation, metabolic and regeneration processes in tissues. Currents, magnetotherapy, ultrasound and low-intensity laser radiation are widely used.
Folk methods. They are used only with the permission of the attending physician. Wraps with honey and camphor alcohol, rubbing, baths based on medicinal decoctions are shown;
LFK. A set of exercises is selected individually by a specialist in physiotherapy exercises, taking into account concomitant diseases, age and current state of the patient. Classes must be carried out daily, preferably 2 times for 40-50 minutes;
Surgical intervention. Manipulations are carried out according to the diagnosis. Traumatic injuries, neuropathy, lesions of the nervous system, vascular anomalies are promptly corrected.

Prevention and prognosis of leg numbness

Prevention of discomfort is extremely simple and affordable:

lead an active, mobile life;
get rid of bad habits;
eat properly and in a balanced way, controlling body weight;
wear comfortable clothes and shoes;
do not get cold;
be attentive to your well-being, health status, regularly attending medical examinations and preventive medical examinations.

It is strongly not recommended to delay the treatment of numbness, which is caused by a serious destructive process in the body. Don't let the situation take its course. A quick visit to a doctor can get rid of unpleasant symptoms, and in some cases even save lives.

Treatment of leg numbness in the clinic of Dr. Length

If you experience numbness in your legs that causes you anxiety or anxiety, contact recognized experts in this field - doctors of the famous clinic of Dr. Length in Moscow. Doctors will conduct a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the cause of the ailment, establish an accurate diagnosis, and give professional recommendations for the effective treatment of the disease. The highly professional assistance of specialists who have undergone training and advanced training in the world's leading centers - leaders in the treatment of painful symptoms of any origin, will help to quickly relieve numbness and restore a full quality of life. Offers for patients of the clinic:

effective international treatment using innovative technologies;
use of modern diagnostic and treatment equipment and the latest safe medicines;
services of experienced doctors;
elimination of negative manifestations from the first sessions of therapy;
attentive staff and comfortable environment.

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FAQ

Which doctor is consulted for numbness of the legs?

It is recommended to consult a general practitioner. The specialist will conduct a preliminary examination, refer you for additional diagnostic tests, and establish a diagnosis. According to the results of the diagnosis, redirection to a highly specialized specialist is possible. Since numbness is most often caused by neurological disorders, the pathology will most likely be treated by a neuropathologist.

Does the treatment of leg numbness always require a visit to a doctor?

If numbness occurs once, due to the adoption of an uncomfortable posture, quickly disappears after the restoration of the anatomical norm, then there is no need to worry. Other harmless causes of numbness: hypothermia, wearing tight shoes, a sedentary lifestyle, pregnancy.

It is worth being vigilant if:

there are no obvious reasons for regularly recurring numbness;
numbness accompanied by loss of coordination, difficulty walking;
numb limb loses sensation of temperature;
negative symptoms are added: weakness, dizziness, impaired urination.

These signs may indicate the presence of a life-threatening condition such as a stroke. Emergency medical care can save lives or minimize the negative consequences of a lesion.

Who is most vulnerable to leg numbness?

The pathological condition is more often diagnosed in old or mature age. This is due to the increase in degenerative changes in the body, acquired vascular or neurological diseases. There is no gender dependence in pathology.

How to eat properly so that numbness in the limbs of the legs is less frequent or completely gone?

Include in your diet foods containing vitamins B12 and B6 (cereals, cereals, dairy products, fish, eggs, legumes). Give up products that increase the spasm of small blood vessels: strong coffee and any alcohol, do not smoke. Foods high in magnesium and potassium are useful: buckwheat, nuts, bananas, but it is advisable not to abuse the portion sizes of these high-calorie foods. Normalize the amount of fluid you drink, drink at least 2 liters of water, and when playing sports, increase its amount.

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Material verified by an expert

Mikhailov Valery Borisovich

Manual therapist, vertebrologist, neurologist

Work experience - 25 years

Video testimonials of patients

Hernia in the lower back and in the neck came to the clinic with problems

spine. With two intervertebral lower hernias and two intervertebral hernias in the neck. I was assigned a comprehensive 10 step program. For 4 months, my lower vertebrae completely disappeared and crunches in my neck disappeared ...

Lumbo-sacral hernia

“After the first time, my back stopped hurting. I felt relieved. Now 7 sessions have already passed and the back really does not hurt. I began to forget about it. And at first it hurt a lot.”

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve

“For 4 months I suffered from severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve on the right side. After the first visit, relief came immediately within six hours. After 6 courses, the pain was almost gone.

Pain in the lower back and leg

Yakovleva Natalya Mikhailovna
Head of the department, surgeon of the highest category, oncologist-mammologist
I want to express my deep gratitude for the fact that I was put on my feet in the truest sense of the word. I came to the clinic a month and a half ago with severe pain in the lower back and leg. These complaints were long enough and the treatment that I used in the past was ineffective. Fortunately, I ended up in the clinic of Dr. Length and his team of super professionals!

Cervical osteochondrosis

“I applied 2 months ago with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. I have a sedentary job and my neck muscles were very cramped. It was impossible to work. Before that, I went to other doctors, but this did not solve my problem. For 2 months I have a fairly positive dynamics. Every week it gets better and better.”

Bechterew's disease

“I have had Bechterew's disease for 10 years. The vertebrae began to move out, I began to slouch. I turned to other chiropractors, very famous, media ones. In the end, I didn't get any results. After 2 sessions I felt much better. Now I don't have any pain."

Pain in the spine

“I came in with problems in my back, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. I was prescribed procedures, had a massage, and was assigned to do physical education at home. This made it much easier for me. I'm already turning my head. I have no pain."

Shoulder shoulder periarthrosis

I came to the clinic with severe pain in my shoulder. My hand did not rise, I could not sleep at night, I woke up from pain. After the first treatment session, I felt much better. Somewhere in the middle of the course, my hand began to rise, I began to sleep at night.

Arthrosis of the knee joint, 2nd degree

She came in with a very serious illness. I could not walk, I have arthrosis of the 2nd degree of the knee joint. I went through a course of treatment at the Clinic and now I am going 100%.

Herniated disc

“I came to the clinic after I had back pain and it turned out to be a herniated disc. I went to other places, but they only relieved attacks of pain. Hope for a return to normal life was given only by Sergei Vladimirovich, his golden hands!

Scoliosis

“Since I was a teenager, I have suffered from scoliosis in the thoracic region. I felt a feeling of discomfort, tension, periodic pain in the spine. I turned to various specialists, a massage therapist, an osteopath, but I did not feel a strong effect. After treatment, Length S.V. I almost have a straight spine. Currently, I do not feel any problems and discomfort. ”

Intervertebral hernia

“At the 5th-6th session there was an improvement. I felt much better. The pain is gone. Improvement progressed more and more each time. Lesson 10 today. I feel great."

Pain in the lumbar and cervical region

“I am 21 years old. I went to the clinic with discomfort in the lumbar and cervical region. I also sometimes had sharp pains. After undergoing therapy, I felt a significant improvement in my back. I have no pain. The condition as a whole has improved.”

Pain in the back

“At the beginning of the path of therapy, my back hurt very badly. I could no longer walk. I take 5 steps and stop. My entire journey consisted of such stops. In the very first procedure, I left the office with no pain in my spine.”

Cervical hernia

“I came in with a problem in my neck and my right arm was very sore. The neck did not turn, the hand did not rise. After the 3rd session, I felt better. After the 5th, all this pain began to decrease. It turns out I have 2 hernias in my cervical vertebrae. After the sessions, I did an MRI and one hernia decreased. Now he began to move, his hand earned.

Pain in the neck

“I went to Dr. Long because I had a very bad pain in my neck on the right side. I fell on a snowboard 5 years ago, even went to an osteopath, but somehow it didn’t really help. Now everything is fine, there are some consequences left, the muscles were spasmodic. When I came, I had steel muscles, now my neck is very soft.”

Pain in the thoracic region

“I went to the clinic with back pain, namely in the thoracic region. After 10 sessions of treatment, I could already calmly go about my usual business, stay at work until lunch, without howling in pain. Now I've come back for an adjustment after 2 months. I'm fine, my back doesn't hurt."

Hernia and protrusion

“I came to the clinic with L4-L5 hernia and L5-S1 protrusion. Today the course of treatment has ended. Lower back hurt, it was difficult to bend down. After completing the course and receiving instructions in the form of physical exercises, it became much easier. After a month of treatment, I do not feel any stiffness of movements. ”

Pain in the lower back and hip joint

“I've had back pain since I was young. When they became unbearable, I went to Dr. Length's clinic. Already after the first procedure, the pain in the hip joint was gone. After the third procedure, the shooting pains in the lower back stopped.

Very effective procedures

The procedures turned out to be very effective. I used to go to other clinics and 100% did not relieve my pain, they bothered me. After this specialist, after three or four sessions, my functions were restored, the pain in the joints disappeared.

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