What Causes Your Feet to Fall Asleep?

The sensation of your foot falling asleep is never one that is enjoyable but usually, when you feel the pins and needles, you are able to shift positions to help get the blood moving again.

 When your foot falls asleep and doesn’t wake up easily, there are a variety of more serious medical conditions that can cause and contribute to the problem. These issues require the assistance of your podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat.

Some more serious problems that cause foot numbness and tingling include:

1)    Peripheral neuropathy—Most people who have diabetes experience mild to severe numbness in the legs and feet caused by peripheral nerve damage. Peripheral nerve damage is one of the first complications of diabetes.

2)    Nutrient and vitamin deficiencies—B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and other nutrients are required for proper nerve function and to minimize numbness and tingling in the hands, feet, and ankles.

3)    Various diseases—Liver and kidney disease, inflammation, poor blood circulation, and hormonal imbalances can all cause loss of feeling and a tingling sensation in the hands and feet.

If your feet keep falling asleep and you don’t know why, it is important to see your foot specialist to determine the cause. We highly recommend that you consult our board-certified podiatrists at our Nassau County podiatry office, Andrew Shapiro, DPM and Michael Barkin, DPM. Our foot doctors can help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems like plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, diabetic foot care, toe deformities, and nail fungus. Visit our practice conveniently located on West Merrick Road in Valley Stream, Long Island to accommodate all of your foot care needs. Call (516) 825-3860 or book an appointment online today!