When your foot falls asleep, you may be thinking that it has something to do with poor circulation.
Sometimes, paresthesia is a symptom of diabetes or other health conditions, warns theUniversity of Southern California.
That pins-and-needles feeling is often related toprolonged sitting, especially if you’re keeping your legs crossed.
This sitting position can temporarily compress the nerves in your feet, causing numbness.
But if you experience this feeling more often than not, you might be dealing with chronic paresthesia.
According to NINDS, chronic paresthesia may indicate an underlying condition, such as stroke or carpal tunnel syndrome.
What causes numbness in the feet?
Numbness in the feet, legs, or hands is often due to nerve problems, saysHarvard Health.
A common cause is peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects about 20 million people.
It can also be a sign of thyroid disease or a side effect of antibiotics and other drugs.
Since this nutrient occurs mostly in animal foods,vegans and vegetariansare more likely to develop deficiencies.
This condition affects more than 40% of Americans at some point in their lives, reports theCleveland Clinic.
The sciatic nerve runs through the lower back and down through the gluteal muscles, legs, and feet.
You may also experience lower back pain, buttock pain, and other aches.
Watch your alcohol intake
What you eat and drink has a direct impact on your health.
You may also have difficulty walking and experience muscle weakness.
As the researchers note, these symptoms tend to worsen over time.
They also recommend changing positions regularly when sitting or lying down.
Stand up and move around at regular intervals when you have to sit for longer periods.
Regular exercise may help, too.
Certainyoga poses, for instance, may decompress the nerves while strengthening the muscles around them.
Over time, they may help prevent pinched nerves, according toYoga Practice.
Pilates, for example, may help decompress the sciatic nerve and reduce pain (via thePilates Foundation).
Another thing it’s possible for you to do is to tweak your diet.
For starters, attempt to boost your vitamin B12 intake.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available.
Visit theSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration websiteor contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
