Burning sensations, numbness or that “pins and needles” tingling feeling in the feet is a common complaint in a podiatry office. Many people have experienced this feeling after having their legs crossed for a while or while curled up on the couch, and it quickly goes away once your stretch your legs out again.

It is also quite common for people to experience these sensations during exercise as well. Unusual sensations in the feet should always be diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist, but here are a few common reasons for numbness during exercising.

Improper shoes for your foot type. People who have very high arches can experience numbness or tingling because they don’t have the right type of shoes with adequate support. Imagine a flat foot compared to a high arched foot – the same amount of weight is distributed differently in each foot. The flat foot has weight distributed evenly throughout the bottom of the foot. The high arched foot has a lot of pressure on some very small surface areas. That intense pressure in a small area can affect the nerves in the foot, causing numbness or tingling.

Continuous pressure on the feet. This happens often with exercises that involve planting the feet in a stationery stance, such as when you use a StairMaster, stationery bike or elliptical machine for exercise. Because your feet never leave the machine, the continuous pressure can restrict circulation. Try wiggling your toes, shifting your feet around or taking breaks to alleviate the pressure. Orthotics can also help eliminate the tingling, by taking pressure off the ball of your foot. Contact me if you think you need orthotics.

Foot neuromas. A neuroma is an inflamed nerve that almost always occurs between the third and fourth toes. Neuromas are often painful, but can also cause numbness or tingling sensations between the third and fourth toe. Neuromas need to be treated by a podiatrist.

There are a few other conditions that can cause numbness or tingling in the foot, such as peripheral neuropathy, which is often associated with diabetes. Multiple sclerosis (MS) and Raynaud’s disease are other diseases that can have similar symptoms.

It is important to see a podiatrist to rule out some of these conditions. I can also determine what the cause may be and treat the issue as needed. Contact my office to set up an appointment by email or phone at 541-385-7129.

–Dr. Frank, 541-385-7129