What is the reason for long term foot numbness?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 29 year old male. Four days ago, I started feeling numb on the side of my left foot. The feel continues and the entire portion of the left foot is numb now. Please guide me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand that it can be very troublesome and scary to have complete numbness in a specific area of the body.

From what you have mentioned, it sounds like you do not remember any incident that brought this on. I assume this is something you noticed one day after waking up from sleep, is that right?

It may be helpful to know if the numbness is on the outer side or the inner side of the foot. Is there any area on the side of the ankle or the leg, between the knee and ankle that is similarly numb?

The sensations from the outer side of the foot are carried to the brain by nerves that go up to the S1 (sacral) level of the spine, while those from the inner side of the foot go to the L5 and L4 levels lumbar.

These nerves can be affected by multiple issues ranging from trauma to any location along its track, pressure from certain structures such as discs, etc., and general illnesses like diabetes. It is difficult to pinpoint which part of the track of the nerve is affected.

I would suggest you consult a neurologist for a complete physical examination and get the appropriate tests that may be necessary. The treatment would depend upon the cause of the nerve damage.