Numbness in the toes or feet during running can arise from various factors, including wearing ill-fitting shoes or tightly laced shoelaces that compress nerves. Adjusting shoe size or loosening laces can alleviate pressure. Issues with running gait, such as over-striding, may also contribute to foot numbness as shorter strides can help reduce strain. Overexertion without adequate breaks, in addition to dehydration from excessive fluid loss through sweat, may contribute to numbness. Muscle tightness, especially surrounding the sciatic nerve, can compress the nerves in the feet, resulting in numbness. Flat arches also increase pressure on nerves and blood vessels, potentially leading to numbness. Medical causes, such as peripheral neuropathy, Morton's neuroma, and peripheral arterial disease are other potential causes of numbness in the feet. If numbness persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full evaluation and treatment options.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.