Persistent leg numbness: Underlying health issues revealed
Occasionally, we may experience numbness in our legs. A single occurrence shouldn't cause concern, but if it happens repeatedly, it could indicate a more serious condition. Let's explore the ailments that might result in numbness in the lower limbs.
6 November 2024 12:02
Spinal problems are a common cause of numbness
Nerves along the spine send signals to the lower limbs. Degenerative spinal changes or nerve conduction disorders can lead to numbness in the legs, which can be quite troublesome.
Numbness in the feet can also result from issues in the sacral and lumbar regions of the spine. Often, a herniated disc places excessive pressure between the vertebrae, causing sensory disturbances in the legs. Pressure on the nerves can also arise from prolonged sitting or a tumour near the nerves. Regularly changing positions and engaging in physical activity can alleviate these issues.
Too much sugar? Your legs will alert you
People with diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes, often experience numb legs. This impairs normal sensation and can even lead to diabetic foot due to difficult-to-heal wounds. Excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, or a deficiency in B vitamins can also cause neuropathy. Proper supplementation is essential here.
Numbness in the legs is a sign of developing cancer
Numbness in the legs can indicate the potential development of certain cancers, such as bone cancer. Sometimes, visible causes of numbness, like tumours around the bones, can present similar symptoms. Additionally, numbness may result from osteoarthritis, which damages cartilage and eventually destroys the entire joint, often affecting the hip or spine.
The feeling of numbness in the legs is also linked to atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, neurosis, vascular diseases, multiple sclerosis, and poor nutrition with a deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals. Thus, there are many potential causes of leg numbness.
It's important to determine whether the numbness in the legs is constant or fleeting. Based on its frequency and underlying causes, it is worthwhile to maintain physical activity and shed excess weight.
