What is Numbness? What causes it?
Numbness is a loss of feeling or sensation in a part of your body. [1].
A variety of factors can cause numbness. It is most commonly associated with some nerve damage, irritation, or compression [2]. Everyday activities such as standing or sitting in one position for a long time, sitting cross-legged, or falling asleep on your arm can cause numbness by placing pressure on your nerves [3].
Certain medical conditions can also lead to numbness. These include diabetes, which can cause permanent nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis, a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system [3, 4].
Other conditions that can cause numbness include alcohol misuse disorder, osteoarthritis, compressive neuropathies like carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, Guillain-Barré syndrome, herniated disk, Lyme disease, peripheral neuropathy, sciatica, shingles, thyroid diseases, vasculitis, and vitamin B-12 deficiency [2].
In some cases, numbness can be a symptom of a severe condition such as a stroke or a brain tumour, mainly if it occurs alongside symptoms like facial drooping, difficulty speaking, confused thinking, pounding headache, loss of consciousness, confusion, or shortness of breath [2].
Toe numbness after wearing heels: Causes and Cure
Toe numbness after wearing heels can be a common issue for many women. This discomfort can be attributed to several factors, primarily the pressure and constriction that high heels place on the feet.
High heels can cause blood flow constriction and nerve damage, leading to peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the feet [5]. The pressure exerted on the feet by high heels can lead to increased load on the forefoot, which may aggravate symptoms in individuals with existing conditions like hallux valgus deformity [6].
If the numbness is caused by an injury, disease, or nutritional deficiency, your doctor will map out a treatment plan to address the underlying cause of numbness [5]. Physical therapy may be suggested to help you adapt to walking and standing with numb heels and to improve your balance. Exercises to increase circulation in your feet may also be recommended [5].
However, the most effective way to prevent toe numbness from high heels is to limit the time spent wearing them. Studies suggest that a duration of 3.5 hours of wear and a heel height of 7.5 cm serve as critical points to decrease overall body pain [7].
Remember, if you experience severe symptoms and numbness, it's essential to see a doctor immediately, as the combination of symptoms may indicate a more severe condition [5].