What causes numbness in both big toes?
Disease description:
My big toes on both feet have been feeling numb recently, and this numbness has persisted for several days. I'm not sure what's causing it. I usually need to stand for long periods of time at work; I don't know if that's related. I'd like to know what could be causing the numbness in my big toes.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Numbness in the big toes may be caused by various factors, which can be summarized as follows:
1. Stroke: Related to diseases such as hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and coronary heart disease, it may be a precursor of ischemic stroke.
2. Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy, sciatica, etc., may result from diabetes, malnutrition, or hereditary diseases leading to nerve dysfunction, causing numbness.
3. Thromboangiitis obliterans: Deep vein thrombosis may lead to this condition, affecting the foot's blood circulation and causing numbness.
4. Lumbar disc herniation: When the nerve roots at the fifth lumbar and first sacral levels are compressed, it may affect the innervation and movement of the big toe, resulting in numbness.
5. Circulatory disorders: Prolonged standing, sitting, or wearing tight shoes may compress blood vessels, impairing blood flow and causing local ischemia and numbness.
6. Multiple peripheral neuritis: This may be caused by nutritional metabolic disorders or connective tissue diseases, presenting as burning sensation in limbs, limited movement, and toe numbness.
If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended to avoid delaying treatment.
