Tingling or numbness sensation in your legs or feet is not something that one can ignore and move on. It is quite a common complaint that may or may not be a source of concern.
Desensitized legs or feet may result from various factors, ranging from a simple sleeping position to a more serious underlying condition.
Stay with us till the end to explore the top 10 reasons why your legs lose sensation and provide remedies to deal with this condition.
Top 10 Reasons For Numbness in Legs and Feet
Usually, this condition is not something that needs immediate attention; however, if your condition stays the same after days, get to a doctor for a quick checkup.
1. Poor Circulation
Poor circulation is the culprit of this condition 90% of the time. A sedentary lifestyle, excessive smoking, high BP, or cholesterol levels majorly contribute to it. To get rid of this problem, you must keep your body moving.
2. Pinched Nerves
Numbness in the legs or feet may be due to pinched nerves. It is a condition in which the nerve endings in the lower back are compressed, which causes pain and numbness.
3. Herniated Disc
A herniated disc in the lower back puts pressure on the nerves that lead to the legs, causing numbness.
4. Diabetes
High blood sugar levels in this condition damage the nerves which run down to your legs leading to loss of sensation – numbness. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy.
5. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
MS affects the central nervous system of a person; therefore, it presents with signs like muscle weakness and difficulty with coordination.
6. Vitamin deficiency
If you lack an adequate supply of vitamins, B12 in particular, numbness in the legs and feet is inevitable. This vital content is important for your nerve health, and a deficiency can cause damage to the nerves.
7. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
PAD affects the blood flow through the vessels in your legs. The loss of sensation, pain, and cramping in the legs during physical activity are also seen.
8. Raynaud’s Disease
This condition causes the blood vessels in your feet and hands to narrow down, causing this issue.
9. Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a result of a tick bite and shows up with symptoms like numbness in the legs.
10. Certain Medications
Some medications, like the ones given in chemotherapy, can cause this issue as a side effect.
Remedies to Deal With Numbness In Legs and Feet
Exercise: Regular movement improves circulation and reduces the risk of losing sensation in the legs and feet. Walking, cycling, swimming, and yoga are all great options.
Massage: Gentle massages work for the betterment of circulation to reduce tension in the muscles, relieving numbness.
Stretching: Stretching reduces tension and improves the circulation of blood to your feet.
Warm bath: Soaking in a warm bath enhances blood circulation and works to reduce the tension in muscles for relaxation.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice involving thin needle insertion into specific points on your body.
It helps the blood to flow better and relieves tension in the muscles.
Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes incorporating fruits, veggies, and whole grains. All food groups ensure there is the least risk of vitamin deficiencies that can cause numbness in the legs and feet.
Final Note
Desensitization of the legs may be something because of your lifestyle. Try changing that first and observe if there is a positive change. If not, schedule an appointment with a nearby healthcare professional from Family Diagnostic Clinic by dialing (281) 351-6800.