Numbness and tingling can happen anywhere in the body, but it’s especially bothersome when it affects the feet. This discomfort, often described as sensory loss or paresthesia, is common in the hands, feet, arms, and legs. Finding relief may be possible through specific exercises aimed at restoring sensation in numb feet, which can help improve circulation and ease discomfort by reactivating the affected nerves and muscles over time.
Why Does Numbness in the Feet Occur?
Numbness in the feet is due to poor communication between the nerves and the central nervous system. Sometimes, it can be a temporary issue. Temporary causes include blood shortages, like from sitting cross-legged for too long. These types of temporary causes are usually relatively harmless. Anesthesia would be considered an artificial cause of foot numbness. Some neurological disorders can also cause numbness and tingling in the feet. Diseases such as Lyme disease and Diabetic Neuropathy can cause nerve damage.
Exercises and Stretches to Ease Numbness and Discomfort
If you are experiencing numbness and tingling in your feet, the main cause may not be your feet, it may be cause by your back instead. Sciatic nerve problems of the lower back can cause a painful numbness in the feet. Doing sciatica exercises can help to relieve the numbness and pain you may be experiencing. Yoga and other targeted stretching exercises can help ease muscle tension. They can also help ease the pressure on the sciatica nerve. It’s wise to develop an exercise routine with the help of your doctor and physical therapist before beginning or trying anything new.
There is a muscle in the back called the Piriformis muscle. This particular muscle has the sciatic nerve running through it or along side of it. By learning to properly stretch this muscle, you can quickly ease your pain.
The next tip for easing sciatica and foot numbness is to practice the Pelvis Balance move. Your pelvis is what keeps everything in balance. Place your hand under each side of your pelvis where you would normally wear a belt. As you do this, note whether or not there is more pressure on one side or the other. If there is more pressure on one side than the other, your pelvis is not balanced.
Finally, keep moving. Particularly work your toes and do ankle circles (small circles; start with rotating each ankle five times clockwise and then switching to five times counterclockwise). Stay moving as much possible. Pain tends to be worse after you’ve been sitting or laying down for too long.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should stop the exercises and call 9-1-1 immediately if you are experiencing other unusual symptoms like:
- Weakness or paralysis occurring with numbness or tingling
- Numbness or tingling after a head, neck, or back injury
- You cannot control the movement of an arm or a leg or you have lost bladder or bowel control
- You are confused or have lost consciousness, even briefly
- You have slurred speech, change in vision, difficulty walking, or weakness
- Numbness or tingling has no obvious cause (like a hand or foot “falling asleep”)
- You have pain in your neck, forearm or fingers
Learn More About Foot Numbness and Exercises
while numbness and tingling in the feet can often be managed through targeted exercises, stretches, and regular movement, it’s essential to be mindful of any accompanying symptoms that may indicate a more serious issue. Sciatica exercises and specific stretches can relieve discomfort related to nerve compression, while general foot mobility exercises help keep circulation strong. However, if symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other troubling signs, seeking medical advice is crucial. Consulting with a healthcare provider ensures that underlying conditions, such as neurological disorders or nerve damage, are properly addressed, helping you manage symptoms effectively and maintain optimal nerve health.