Published on: 9/30/2024
When only parts of the toes or between the toes feel numb, there may be some nerve compression.
Common diseases that may cause nerve compression leading to foot or toe numbness include tarsal tunnel syndrome and a Morton’s neuroma. Other assortments can also lead to similar symptoms.
Also known as tibial nerve dysfunction, the tibial nerve gets pinched in the inner aspect of the ankle leading to numbness and pain that may radiate from the ankle down to the bottom surface of the foot and into the toes. Walking typically makes it worse while rest relieves symptoms.
Numbness and pain between the 2nd, 3rd and 4th toes or between the 1st and 2nd toes on the bottom of the foot may be due to Morton’s neuroma. or between the middle and index toes on the underside of the foot. Tissue thickens around the nerves feeding sensation to these toes leading to pain, numbness and tingling. The condition is associated with wearing tight shoes such as boots and high heels.
Systemic disease like diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiencies, infections, alcohol consumption and diseases of the spine may be other causes of toe numbness. If symptoms are bothersome, persistent, worsening of accompanied by other symptoms, consult a medical provider.
(References)
Nelson SC. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2021 Apr;38(2):131141. doi: 10.1016/j.cpm.2020.12.001. PMID: 33745647.
Mansfield CJ, Bleacher J, Tadak P, Briggs MS. Differential examination, diagnosis and management for tingling in toes: fellow's case problem. J Man Manip Ther. 2017 Dec;25(5):294299. doi: 10.1080/10669817.2016.1260675. Epub 2016 Nov 30. PMID: 29449772; PMCID: PMC5810784.
Hanewinckel R, Ikram MA, Van Doorn PA. Peripheral neuropathies. Handb Clin Neurol. 2016;138:26382. doi: 10.1016/B9780128029732.00015X. PMID: 27637963.
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