Not what you're looking for? CLICK HERE INSTEAD
The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM
I have numbness in the balls of both feet
by Michael
(North Augusta, SC)
The problem began 14 years ago with only occasional discomfort in the balls of my feet that would come and go. Over time it became more persistent and eventually would not go away at all and eventually spread toward the toes making it very uncomfortable to stand for any length of time. My toes feel like they are being squeezed and it feels like the tendons in my toes are pulling them back/up. I feel like I will eventually not be able to stand on my feet at all. This is really incapacitating as well as unbearable. I have seen four different specialists as well as my own PCP and have had every test run imaginable as well as been put on every possible medication for neurological issues to include anti-depressants. Nothing helps. I have not had an MRI and the current specialist wants to do a CAT scan to check for cancer.
ANSWER
Hi Michael,
Based on what you have stated in your description, my first thought is that this coming from your lower back. The fact that it is occurring in both feet and has been worsening over the years (I assume at the same rate in both feet) leads me to believe that the common denominator is your back.
A lesser possibility would be bilateral tarsal tunnel, which the incidence of having the same condition in both feet is very low plus the fact that even if you had tarsal tunnel in both feet they probably would not have progressed at the same rate.
So this brings us back to the lower back. I will tell you that I have patient's with similar situations and in some cases a cause is never found.
I would think an MRI would be the appropriate course of treatment and quite frankly am surprised that you have never had one up to this point.
A tumor is always a possibility but this problem has been going on for 14 years so that tells me even if it is a tumor (and more than likely not) at least it is slow growing which certainly works in your favor.
As a final thought I will assume you have been worked up for Morton's neuroma which occurs in the ball of the foot. Your symptoms do not sound totally suggestive of a Morton's neuroma and again they would develop at different rates so one foot would be worst than the other. I just mention it to make sure one of your doctor's has ruled that out as well.
Marc Mitnick DPM
DISCLAIMER
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES
University of Rochester Medical Center
American Academy of Pediatrics
Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation
Recent Articles
-
Vitamin D impact on health
Feb 06, 23 07:17 PM
Researchers are suggesting that the effectiveness of Vitamin D in fighting and preventing disease is predicated on a persons body mass index (BMI). The thinner the person the greater the positive impa… -
Foods to speed up healing
Feb 01, 23 02:41 PM
One of the best ways to help yourself heal faster after surgery is to eat well. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. Here is a suggestio… -
Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes
Jan 25, 23 04:52 PM
An article revealing that older type 2 diabetics have a higher incidence of cancer then non-diabetics. It is suggested that cancer may surpass CVD as the number one cause of death in older diabetics. -
Does glucosamine or MSM reduce arthritis pain?
Jan 22, 23 01:41 PM
A good review of the possible benefits to taking glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM for arthritis. Always beware of the possible side effects of over the counter supplements. -
shin splints
Jan 18, 23 05:12 PM
A great review on the various causes of shin splints, along with treatment options. -
Whats new in skin cancer?
Jan 15, 23 08:32 PM
A presentation of newer skin protection combinations in an effort to better protect the skin from the hazards of sun exposure. -
Causes and risk factors of warts
Jan 14, 23 05:02 PM
A good review of the causes of warts and protective measures you can take to prevent developing them. -
Do chronic wounds need to be dressed daily?
Jan 11, 23 02:18 PM
Because of supply chain shortages as well as staffing shortages particularly during the pandemic, many institutions extended the time between dressing changes for chronic wounds. Is this really the be… -
Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes
Jan 08, 23 10:07 AM
A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Certain food groups have a tendency to raise your blood sugars and should be avoided. -
Outcome stats from Scarf bunionectomy
Jan 03, 23 03:04 PM
The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery recently reported a meta analysis of outcomes in 1583 Scarf bunionectomies that met their inclusion criteria. Adverse events did not seem to be any better or wors…