What causes the sensation of coldness in the bones?

May 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
A sensation of coldness in the bones may be caused by inadequate body warmth, leading to exposure to cold air. It could also occur when the feet suffer severe trauma, affecting local blood circulation and preventing heat from being delivered promptly to the feet, resulting in a cold feeling within the foot bones. Additionally, it may result from herniated intervertebral disc tissue compressing nerve roots; prolonged compression can cause a cold sensation in the areas innervated by the affected nerves.

A sensation of coldness in the bones may be caused by non-disease factors, or by medical conditions such as trauma or lumbar disc herniation. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Non-disease factors

If proper body warmth is not maintained and the body is exposed to cold air, it may lead to a feeling of coldness within the bones. Generally, symptoms can improve once adequate warming measures are taken.

II. Disease factors

1. Trauma

Severe injury to the feet can impair local blood circulation. When heat cannot be delivered adequately to the feet, a cold sensation within the bones of the feet may occur. It is recommended to visit a hospital for thorough evaluation to determine the extent of injury, followed by treatments such as local heat application or electrothermal therapy. In cases of fracture, external fixation with plaster may also be required.

2. Lumbar Disc Herniation

When the protruding nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc compresses nerve roots, radiating pain may occur in muscles innervated by the affected nerves. Prolonged compression can lead to ischemia and degeneration in the area, causing sensations of coldness or numbness in the affected regions. It is recommended to seek medical treatment at a hospital using methods such as lumbar traction, manipulation, or massage to relieve nerve root compression and alleviate symptoms.

In addition, this sensation may also result from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, bone tuberculosis, or bone tumors. If symptoms persist without improvement, timely medical consultation and diagnosis are necessary.