Symptom guide
Numbness or Tingling in the Feet
A persistent or intermittent numbness, burning, or pins-and-needles sensation in the feet or toes. May be worse after prolonged standing or walking.
When to seek emergency care
- Sudden bilateral foot numbness with back pain (seek emergency care)
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Progressive weakness in the legs
Conditions commonly associated with this symptom
Patients describing numbness or tingling in the feet are commonly evaluated for these conditions. Only a clinician can determine which applies to you.
Which specialist typically evaluates this
The right provider depends on your specific situation. These are the specialties that commonly evaluate numbness or tingling in the feet.
Frequently asked questions
- What spine conditions are commonly associated with foot numbness?
- Lumbar spinal stenosis, lumbar radiculopathy, disc bulges, and sciatica are among the spine conditions commonly associated with numbness or tingling in the feet.
- Should I see a spine doctor for foot numbness?
- Foot numbness that accompanies lower back pain or follows a specific pattern down the leg warrants evaluation by a spine specialist to assess for nerve compression.
- Can foot numbness be related to something other than the spine?
- Yes. Peripheral neuropathy (often related to diabetes) or vascular issues can cause similar symptoms. A spine specialist can help determine whether the source is spinal or systemic.
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