Numb Toes

Feeling numbness in your toes can be caused by problems with blood circulation, injury, nerve damage or even disease. Sometimes, the sensation of numb toes is accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation called “parasthesia” of the toes.

A variety of factors can be at the root of toe numbness. This makes the condition quite difficult to pinpoint effectively. Although not always serious, if accompanied by other sensations such as abdominal pain, a doctor should be consulted without delay.

Some causes of toe numbness include frostbite, vasculitis, sciatica, peripheral vascular disease and multiple sclerosis. Before jumping to an immediate conclusion you should try ruling out less serious causes of having numb toes. For instance, if you experience toe numbness when walking you might simply be using shoes that are two tight. Also, if you tend to curl your toes downward while you walk this causes trauma to your toes and does not allow your feet to reach an entirely extended position. This will often cause numbness. In order to avoid this you can try being conscious of relaxing your toes as you walk.

After ruling out harmless causes for toe numbness you should consult a doctor if the sensation persists chronically. Tingling in the toes or numbness may also be caused by peripheral neuropathy. People who smoke, have diabetes and are over 40 are especially at risk of contracting this condition. Peripheral neuropathy usually occurs in people who have trouble with controlling their body's blood sugar level. The condition can also occur in people with alcoholism, immune system disorders (like HIV), infection and unexpected traumas.

In peripheral neuropathy large and small blood vessels are damaged and may be the cause of the resulting nerve damage. A sensation of numbness or burning in the legs, feet and toes usually accompanies the condition. When nerve damage goes untreated for long periods of time, loss of motor control can ensue. If you have diabetes and feel chronic toe numbness or tingling you should consult a doctor immediately.

In conclusion, numbness in the toes can be caused by a variety of conditions. Some of the situations that provoke numb toes are harmless such as being cold, wearing tight shoes or walking in a way that causes slight trauma to the toes. Other causes of toe numbness can be provoked by serious complications and should be investigated immediately. If you suspect a more serious condition you should consult a physician in order to receive the proper treatment.