Category: Neurology

Why are my feet numb?

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - Frequently asked questions, N, Neurology

Numbness in the feet can be caused by various reasons, including poor circulation, nerve damage, injury, infection, and certain medical conditions. Some common causes of numbness in the feet include:

  1. Peripheral neuropathy – damage to the nerves in the feet caused by diabetes or other medical conditions.
  2. Poor circulation – reduced blood flow to the feet caused by conditions such as peripheral artery disease or Raynaud’s disease.
  3. Tarsal tunnel syndrome – compression of the nerve that runs along the inside of the ankle.
  4. Morton’s neuroma – a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes.
  5. Spinal cord injury or disease – damage to the spinal cord can cause numbness or weakness in the feet.
  6. Injuries – trauma to the feet, such as a broken bone or sprain, can cause temporary numbness.
  7. Vitamin deficiencies – deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as B12, can cause numbness in the feet.

If you are experiencing persistent numbness in your feet, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Nerve injuries of the foot

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - N, Neurology

Nerve injuries of the foot can occur as a result of trauma, compression, or certain medical conditions. Some common nerve injuries of the foot include:

  1. Morton’s neuroma: This is a common condition where the nerve between the third and fourth toe becomes compressed and irritated, causing pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot.
  2. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: This is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve in the ankle becomes compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot.
  3. Peripheral neuropathy: This is a condition where the nerves in the feet become damaged, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling.
  4. Plantar fasciitis: Although not strictly a nerve injury, plantar fasciitis can cause nerve compression and pain in the heel and sole of the foot.
  5. Trauma: Injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and sprains can damage the nerves in the foot, causing pain, numbness, and other symptoms.

Treatment for nerve injuries of the foot depends on the cause and severity of the injury. Conservative treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy may be sufficient in mild cases. More severe cases may require medication, injections, or surgery to relieve pain and restore function.

Multiple sclerosis and your feet

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - M, Neurology

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that can affect the entire body, including the feet. MS can cause nerve damage, which can lead to a variety of symptoms in the feet, including:

  1. Numbness or tingling: This is a common symptom of MS and can be felt in the feet, as well as the legs and hands.
  2. Weakness: MS can cause weakness in the feet, which can make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods.
  3. Spasticity: MS can cause muscle stiffness and spasms, which can affect the feet and make it difficult to move them.
  4. Balance problems: MS can affect balance, making it difficult to walk and increasing the risk of falls.
  5. Foot drop: Foot drop is a common symptom of MS that causes the foot to drag when walking.
  6. Pain: MS can cause pain in the feet, which can be mild to severe and can be described as burning, stabbing, or aching.

If you have MS and are experiencing any foot symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy or other treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Morton’s neuroma

Posted on March 9, 2023 by - Forefoot, M, Neurology

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, usually between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by an enlargement of the nerve that supplies sensation to the toes, which can be due to compression or irritation of the nerve. This can result in symptoms such as pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the affected area. The exact cause of Morton’s neuroma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the mechanics of the foot and repetitive trauma or pressure to the nerve.

Treatment for Morton’s neuroma may involve conservative measures such as changing footwear, using orthotics or padding to reduce pressure on the nerve, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe cases, injections of corticosteroids or other medications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery may be recommended in rare cases where conservative treatment fails to provide relief.

Intermetatarsal neuroma

Posted on March 8, 2023 by - Forefoot, I, Neurology

Intermetatarsal neuroma, also known as Morton’s neuroma, is a condition in which a nerve in the foot becomes compressed or irritated. This condition commonly affects the nerves between the third and fourth toes, although it can also occur between other toes.

Symptoms of intermetatarsal neuroma include:

  1. Pain in the ball of the foot, particularly between the affected toes
  2. Tingling or numbness in the toes
  3. A feeling of something being caught or bunched up in the ball of the foot

Here are some treatment options for intermetatarsal neuroma:

  1. Wear shoes with a wide toe box and a low heel to reduce pressure on the affected area.
  2. Use arch supports or orthotics to help support the foot and redistribute pressure.
  3. Apply ice to the affected area to help reduce pain and swelling.
  4. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to help manage pain.
  5. Your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
  6. Physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the foot.
  7. If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected nerve.

If you are experiencing symptoms of intermetatarsal neuroma, it is important to seek prompt treatment to prevent the condition from worsening. Your podiatrist can help you develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

Drop foot

Posted on March 8, 2023 by - D, Foot types, Neurology

Foot drop is a condition in which a person is unable to lift the front part of their foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upward).

Drop foot can be caused by a variety of conditions, including nerve injuries, muscle disorders, or neurological conditions such as stroke or multiple sclerosis. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.

Symptoms of drop foot include difficulty lifting the foot or toes, dragging the foot while walking, and a higher risk of tripping or falling.

Treatment for drop foot depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Physical therapy exercises may be prescribed to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle, and assistive devices such as braces or splints may be recommended to help support the foot and prevent tripping or falling. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue causing drop foot.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of drop foot, as early treatment can improve outcomes and prevent further complications.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

Posted on March 8, 2023 by - C, Neurology, Pain

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) of the foot is a rare and poorly understood condition characterised by chronic pain, swelling, stiffness, and other symptoms. CRPS is thought to be caused by an abnormal response of the immune and nervous systems to an injury or trauma, leading to ongoing pain and inflammation.

Symptoms of CRPS of the foot may include intense pain, swelling, redness, and sensitivity to touch or temperature changes. Some people may also experience muscle weakness, spasms, or tremors, as well as skin changes such as dryness, thinning, or shiny appearance.

Diagnosis of CRPS of the foot may involve a physical exam, imaging tests, and other diagnostic procedures to rule out other potential causes of foot pain. Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, nerve blocks, and other interventions to manage pain and inflammation and improve mobility and function.

Because CRPS is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose and treat, it is important for individuals with foot pain and other symptoms to seek evaluation and care from a qualified healthcare professional.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease

Posted on March 8, 2023 by - C, Neurology

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a genetic disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. CMT is also known as hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN).

CMT causes a progressive loss of muscle tissue and sensation in the feet and legs, which can eventually spread to the hands and arms. Symptoms of CMT can include weakness in the muscles of the feet, ankles, and legs, difficulty with balance and coordination, foot deformities such as high arches or hammertoes, and numbness or tingling in the feet and hands.

There is currently no cure for CMT, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment options may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthotics or braces to support the feet and legs, and medications to help manage pain or muscle spasms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct foot deformities or relieve pressure on nerves.

Because CMT is a genetic disorder, it is important for individuals with a family history of CMT or symptoms of the disease to seek genetic counselling and testing to determine if they are at risk for passing the condition on to their children. It is also important for people with CMT to take steps to manage their symptoms and prevent complications, such as falls or injuries due to foot deformities.