Why Are My Feet Tingling and What Do I Do About It?

It’s not unusual for adults or children to complain of occasional tingling in the feet. This most often occurs after sitting or lying in one position for an extended period. You might be used to hearing it referred to as the foot “falling asleep” or feeling like “pins and needles.” But what if that feeling doesn’t go away in a few minutes, or if you change position, or if you rub your foot? Then what might be going on?

Tingling that won’t stop is often one of the first signs of peripheral neuropathy, a nerve disorder. This can be a side effect of certain medications, the result of injury to the foot or ankle, related to peripheral arterial disease (PAD) due to poor circulation, caused by malnutrition, or it can be idiopathic, meaning that there is no known reason.

You should take particular note if your protracted tingling sensation is accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• weight gain or loss

• changes in bathroom habits

• feet that feel cold to the touch

• numbness

• redness

• swelling

• difficulty standing or walking

• changes to vision

• fatigue

• disorientation

Any of these symptoms can point to diabetes, a dangerous whole-body illness that poses a particular danger to foot health, and which often occurs alongside neuropathy.

If you are experiencing tingling or any other discomfort in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, help is available. The first step toward healing is a visit with a board-certified podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to help you with examination, diagnosis, and any necessary treatment.

Schedule a visit in Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.’s modern, comfortable office on Solomons Island Road. Call our friendly staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to get started today.