Warning signs
- Tingling in both feet
- Burning pain at night
- Loss of sensation
- Foot ulcers
- Slow wound healing
Good blood sugar control significantly reduces the risk of diabetic nerve damage.
Advertisement
4. Vitamin Deficiencies
Several vitamins are essential for healthy nerve function.
Deficiencies may involve:
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Vitamin B6 (both deficiency and excessive intake)
- Vitamin E
- Folate
People at greater risk include:
- Older adults
- Vegetarians or vegans (for B12 deficiency)
- Individuals with digestive disorders
- People who have undergone bariatric surgery
Treatment involves correcting the nutritional deficiency under medical supervision.
5. Poor Blood Circulation
Reduced blood flow to the legs can cause tingling, numbness, and pain.
Possible causes include:
- Peripheral artery disease
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Atherosclerosis
Symptoms often worsen during walking and improve with rest.
6. Sciatica
Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve may produce tingling that starts in the lower back and radiates into the buttock, leg, and foot.
Other symptoms include:
- Sharp shooting pain
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Difficulty standing for long periods
Treatment may involve physical therapy, pain relief, and exercises to reduce nerve compression.
