Home
Articles
Q&A

What causes numbness in the calf?

Apr 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Jianjun
Introduction
Calf numbness can be caused by physiological factors, lumbar disc herniation, phlebitis, and other conditions. Poor blood circulation in the calf may lead to numbness. In lumbar disc herniation, protruding disc tissue compresses spinal nerves or the cauda equina, causing radiating pain and resulting in calf numbness. Inflammatory changes in the veins and surrounding tissues of the calf can lead to phlebitis, impairing blood flow and causing ischemia, which in turn results in calf numbness.

Numbness in the calf may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions, such as lumbar disc herniation or phlebitis.

I. Physiological Factors

Intense physical activity over a prolonged period can lead to excessive fatigue in the calf muscles. Additionally, exposure of the legs to cold may impair blood circulation in the lower limbs, resulting in numbness. It is recommended to keep the legs warm and apply local heat therapy or massage to improve blood flow and relieve symptoms.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Lumbar Disc Herniation

In cases of lumbar disc herniation, protruding intervertebral disc tissue may compress spinal nerves or the cauda equina, causing radiating pain. This pain typically spreads from the lower back to the buttocks, the posterior-lateral thigh, and down to the calf, leading to symptoms such as numbness and pain in the calf. Adequate rest is advised, and muscle relaxants may be taken under medical guidance. Commonly used medications include eperisone hydrochloride tablets, tizanidine hydrochloride tablets, and chlorzoxazone tablets, which help relax muscles and alleviate symptoms.

2. Phlebitis

Factors such as excessive obesity, prolonged standing, or sitting for long periods may cause inflammatory changes in the veins and surrounding tissues of the calf, leading to phlebitis. This inflammation impairs venous blood flow and may result in ischemia, causing symptoms like pain and numbness in the calf. Symptoms can be alleviated with treatments such as electromagnetic wave therapy or semiconductor laser therapy administered by qualified medical professionals.

In addition, lower limb venous thrombosis could also be a potential cause. A detailed medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended to identify the specific condition and receive appropriate treatment.

Related Articles

View All
Where should you use moxibustion for acne on the face to recover faster?
Acne on the face may be treated with moxibustion at acupoints such as Zusanli (ST36), Quchi (LI11), Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3). Moxibustion should be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. If acne is severe, accompanied by infection, or shows no improvement after moxibustion, prompt medical attention is advised. The Zusanli point is located three cun below the犊鼻 (Dubi) point on the outer side of the lower leg. Moxibustion at this point helps regulate spleen and stomach functions, promotes metabolism, and reduces accumulation of damp-heat in the body.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
What causes blisters, itching, ulceration, and oozing on the lower leg, and what should be done about it?
In general, blisters on the lower leg accompanied by itching, ulceration, and oozing may be caused by friction irritation, insect bites, eczema, contact dermatitis, or varicose veins of the lower extremities with ulcers. Depending on the specific situation, patients may improve symptoms through conservative management, medication, surgical treatment, or other approaches. Skin problems on the lower leg can worsen due to scratching, so proper protection should be maintained in daily life to avoid friction and insect bites.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
Why does the lower leg itch and become more itchy when scratched, with skin hardening? What should be done?
In general, itchy lower legs that become more itchy when scratched, along with hardened skin, may be caused by dryness and dehydration of the skin, friction from clothing, xerosis (dry eczema), neurodermatitis, ichthyosis, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, or other treatments. In daily life, avoid washing the lower legs with hot water and reduce intake of spicy and irritating foods.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
What causes hardened and itchy skin on the lower leg, and what should be done about it?
A hardened and itchy patch of skin on the lower leg may be caused by dry skin, friction, irritation, eczema, neurodermatitis, or contact dermatitis. This can be improved through moisturizing care, minimizing irritation, and medical treatment. If the hardened area spreads, itching worsens, or is accompanied by flaking, redness, or swelling, prompt medical attention is necessary. Contributing factors may include dry climate or insufficient water intake.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
What causes light brown patches on the lower leg, and what should be done about it?
In general, light brown patches on the lower leg may be caused by factors such as sun-induced pigmentation, friction or irritation, stasis dermatitis, post-eczematous pigmentation, or lichen planus. Patients can choose appropriate management approaches, including general measures or medical treatments, based on their specific condition. Daily protection against sun exposure and wearing comfortable clothing to minimize irritation are recommended. It is also important to maintain good lower limb circulation and avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
What could it be if a hard lump develops under the skin of the lower leg?
In general, a hard subcutaneous mass on the lower leg may be caused by factors such as organized hematoma from trauma, nodules due to prolonged pressure, sebaceous cysts, lipomas, or ganglion cysts. Depending on the specific situation, patients may improve their condition through conservative management, medication, surgical treatment, or other approaches. Daily precautions should include protecting the lower leg from injury and wearing comfortable clothing to minimize pressure.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
What causes many small lumps to develop inside the lower leg?
In general, the appearance of multiple small bumps on the lower leg may be caused by dry skin with accumulated keratin, keratosis pilaris, eczema, insect bite dermatitis, or prurigo nodularis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain adequate moisture for the skin on the lower legs and choose loose, breathable clothing.
avatar
Dr. Wang Lei
View Full Answer
What causes the sensation of insects crawling on the lower leg?
In general, the sensation of insects crawling on the lower leg may be caused by dry or dehydrated skin, clothing irritation and friction, peripheral neuropathy, restless legs syndrome, varicose veins, or other reasons. If symptoms occur frequently, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain moisture in the skin of the lower legs, choose comfortable clothing, control blood sugar levels, and maintain a balanced diet.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
彩牛养生

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.