What causes numbness in the legs and feet?

Leg numbness may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions, such as lumbar disc herniation or spinal stenosis. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

Prolonged sitting or standing may lead to poor circulation in the lower limbs, causing blood to stagnate and accumulate in the legs. This affects normal metabolism and nutrient supply, resulting in symptoms such as numbness and discomfort. This condition does not require special treatment and usually resolves after relaxing the leg muscles.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation may cause the intervertebral disc to protrude backward, compressing nerve roots within the spinal canal. This disrupts nerve conduction and normal nerve function, leading to lower limb numbness, often accompanied by pain and stiffness. For recurrent or severe cases, surgical treatments such as percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy or simple interlaminar fenestration with nucleus pulposus removal may be recommended.

2. Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis may compress nerves and blood vessels within the spinal canal, impairing normal nerve conduction and blood supply to the lower limbs, resulting in abnormal sensations, lower back pain, and other symptoms. Symptoms can be alleviated through traction, massage, or physical therapy. Patients may also take neurotrophic medications such as mecobalamin tablets or vitamin B6 tablets to support nerve health.

Besides the above common causes, leg numbness may also result from diabetes, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, cerebral thrombosis, or other conditions. Patients should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive standardized diagnosis and treatment.