Leg numbness is a temporary or permanent loss of skin sensitivity, which is combined with the appearance of such unpleasant sensations as tingling, burning and "crawling". One of the most common causes of leg numbness is damage to the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs along the entire posterior surface of the lower limb and is responsible for conducting tactile, pain and other types of sensitivity. Another cause may be blockage of the superficial or deep vessels of the legs, which also leads to numbness. Often, numbness of the legs is combined with pain.

Anatomy of the lower limb

Three main parts are distinguished in the leg, namely, the thigh, lower leg and foot. The femur is the largest and at the same time the strongest bone in the entire body. From above, the femur articulates with the pelvic bone ( through the head of the femur) to form the hip joint. At the very bottom, the body of the femur expands somewhat and forms two spherical thickenings ( two condyles). These condyles have articular surfaces that are necessary for articulation with the tibia, as well as with the patella ( patella). It is these three bones that form the knee joint.

The knee joint is a rather complex joint in its anatomical structure. In addition to the fact that the joint includes three bones at once ( femur, patella and tibia), inside the knee joint there are special cartilaginous plates ( menisci). The menisci not only increase the correspondence between the articular surfaces of the tibia and femur, but also evenly distribute the entire load in the knee joint. In addition, these cartilaginous plates limit the range of motion in the joint, protecting against subluxations and dislocations. The same function is performed by the patella - a flat, small bone that holds the joint in an anatomically correct position and does not allow it to move excessively. There are many ligaments in the knee joint intra-articular and extra-articular ligaments), which strengthen the joint and at the same time participate in movement.

The lower leg consists of two bones at once - the tibia and the fibula. The tibia has an almost central location and, in fact, is the main bone of the lower leg, since it is it that has the main supporting function. The fibula is located on the outside of the tibia. The main function of the fibula is to strengthen the ankle.

In turn, the ankle joint is formed by three bones at once - the tibia, fibula and talus. The talus, which is part of the bones of the foot, is, as it were, wedged between the outer and inner ankles, which are the lower processes of the tibia and fibula. The joint is strengthened by strong ligaments located on the lateral surfaces of the ankle joint.

In turn, the foot is the lowest segment of the lower limb. The composition of the foot includes a large number of rather small, but meanwhile strong bones of various shapes ( metatarsus, tarsus, phalanges). Thanks to the vaulted structure, the entire mass of the human body is evenly distributed on the foot, which allows not only to maintain balance, but also to promote the movement of the body in space.

In addition to the bone structures of the lower limb, the following issues should be considered separately:

• skeletal muscles of the lower extremities;
• blood supply to the legs;
• innervation of the legs.

Skeletal muscles of the lower extremities

The muscles of the thigh are divided into three groups - hip flexors, hip extensors and muscles that bring the thigh outward ( pronators). These muscles have a rather large mass and, therefore, are able to develop great power. The skeletal muscles of the thigh can affect both the knee joint and the hip joint. Due to the thigh muscles, it is possible to maintain the body in a static state, as well as to move the whole body in space ( dynamic function).

The following most important thigh muscles are distinguished:

• Quadratus femoris consists of four heads ( straight, medial, intermediate and lateral) and, in fact, is the strongest muscle among all the muscles of the lower limb. In the lower third of the thigh, these muscles converge and form a common tendon, which is attached to the lateral edges and apex of the patella, as well as to the tibia. The square muscle of the thigh extends the lower leg ( movements are carried out in the knee joint), and also participates in the flexion of the hip itself ( rectus muscle).
• Sartorius is the longest muscle in the body. The sartorius muscle originates from the ilium ( anterior upper spine). Heading askew and down diagonally), the muscle, with the help of a tendon, is attached to the anterior surface of the upper leg. The sartorius muscle is involved in the rotation of the thigh outward, and the lower leg inward.
• comb muscle belongs to the medial muscle group of the thigh ( located on the inside of the thigh). This muscle originates from the crest of the pubic bone and, moving obliquely down, is attached to the femur. The function of the comb muscle of the thigh is to flex the leg at the hip joint along with its outward rotation.
• thin muscle located subcutaneously and most medially ( closest to the midline). Muscle bundles of the thin muscle start from the pubic articulation ( pubic symphysis). Then the muscle goes down and attaches to the tuberosity of the tibia. The thin muscle takes part in the flexion of the lower limb at the knee, and also brings the abducted leg to its original position.
• The adductor muscles of the thigh ( long, short and large muscle) start from the pubic bone, as well as from the ischium ( adductor major muscle). All three adductor muscles attach to the rough line of the femur. The adductor longus and brevis flex the thigh, while the adductor magnus extends the thigh. Also, these muscles are involved in the rotation of the thigh outward and bringing it to the median plane.
• Biceps femoris refers to the posterior thigh muscles. The long head of the biceps muscle originates from the sacroiliac ligament and ischial tuberosity, while the short head originates from the lower third of the thigh. The biceps muscle is attached to the head of the fibula and the fascia of the lower leg. This muscle is involved in the rotation of the lower leg outward.
• semimembranosus muscle starts from the ischial tuberosity thickening of the ischium that protrudes downward) and, heading down, is attached in three bundles to one of the ligaments of the knee joint ( tibial ligament) and to the tibia. This muscle of the thigh is involved in flexion of the lower leg and extension of the thigh. With a bent knee joint, the muscle takes part in the rotation of the lower leg.
• Semitendinosus also originates from the ischial tuberosity and is attached to the tuberosity of the tibia. The function of the semitendinosus muscle is identical to that of the semimembranosus muscle.

The following most important leg muscles are distinguished:

• Tibialis anterior belongs to the anterior muscle group. This muscle originates from the outer surface of the tibia, the external condyle ( protrusion of a bone, for articulation with another bone) and from the interosseous membrane of the leg ( connective tissue membrane connecting the bony edges of both bones of the lower leg). Heading down, the muscle passes into the tendon, which is attached to the plantar surface of the foot. The muscle is involved in the extension and adduction of the foot, as well as in its supination ( turns outward). With a fixed foot, the muscle tilts the lower leg forward.
• Long finger extensor originates from the upper third of the tibia and fibula, as well as from the interosseous membrane and intermuscular septum of the leg. With the help of tendons, the muscle is attached to the second - fifth phalanx. The long extensor of the fingers unbends and abducts the foot, and also slightly raises the outer edge of the foot.
• Long extensor thumb starts from the inner surface of the lower third of the fibula. Heading down, the muscle passes into a long tendon, which is attached to the fifth phalanx. This muscle not only extends the big toe, but also takes part in the extension of the entire foot in the ankle joint.
• Peroneus longus muscle enters the lateral ( lateral) a group of muscles of the lower leg. The long peroneal muscle originates from the upper part of the tibia, as well as from the head of the fibula, goes down and is attached to the bones of the metatarsus. This muscle flexes the foot and also rotates it inwards.
• Peroneus brevis originates from the lower half of the fibula, as well as from the intermuscular septum of the leg. Heading down, the muscle passes over the lateral ( outdoor) of the ankle and attaches to the fifth metatarsal. The function of this muscle is similar to the large peroneal muscle ( flexion and pronation of the foot).
• triceps calf muscle, in fact, it consists of two separate muscles - the calf muscle, located superficially, and the soleus muscle, which lies under the calf. The gastrocnemius muscle consists of two heads that originate from the internal and external condyle of the femur. In turn, the soleus muscle begins on the posterior surface of the upper part of the tibia. The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles are combined into one common tendon ( Achilles tendon), which is attached to the calcaneus. The triceps muscle is involved in the flexion of the foot and lower leg, and with a fixed foot, the muscle holds the lower leg.
• Hamstring originates from the lateral condyle of the femur. Moving down, this muscle is attached to the tibia. The popliteal muscle is involved in the flexion of the lower leg and its rotation inwards. In addition, the muscle also pulls on the capsule of the knee joint.

Leg circulation

The following layers are distinguished in the wall of blood vessels:

• Inner shell ( endothelium) blood vessels are formed by squamous epithelium, which is located on the basement membrane ( participates in the regeneration of the inner shell). Also, the composition of the inner shell of the vessels includes loose connective tissue, as well as elastic and muscle fibers.
• Middle shell It is made up of elastic fibers and smooth muscle cells. Due to the elastic fibers, the vessels are able to stretch to a large extent, while the smooth muscle tissue allows you to regulate the blood supply to the organs. Depending on which functional cells predominate in the middle shell, three types of vessels are distinguished - elastic, muscular and muscular-elastic. For large arteries, such as the femoral, the predominance of elastic fibers is characteristic, while in the veins and arteries of medium and small caliber, smooth muscles predominate.
• outer shell It is represented by a large number of collagen fibers, which give the vessel wall significant strength.

The following arteries pass through the lower limb:

• femoral artery is a continuation of the iliac artery, which, in turn, departs from the abdominal part of the aorta. The femoral artery originates from the inguinal ligament and in the region of the popliteal fossa directly passes into the popliteal artery. It should be noted that the femoral artery is an artery of the elastic type ( able to withstand high pressure). Being the main artery of the lower limb, the femoral artery gives off a large number of branches that supply blood not only to the tissues of the leg itself, but also to some segments of the abdominal cavity and groin. The main branch of the femoral artery is the deep femoral artery. The deep artery of the thigh is a rather thick trunk that gives branches to the hip joint, as well as to the muscles of the thigh. This artery also supplies blood to the femur and thigh skin. In addition, one of the branches of the femoral artery is also involved in the blood supply to the knee joint ( descending artery of the knee joint).
• Popliteal artery originates in the popliteal fossa and is a continuation of the femoral artery. From the popliteal artery, the middle genicular artery departs, as well as the upper and lower genicular arteries, which, communicating with each other, form an arterial network that feeds the knee joint. In addition, the popliteal artery nourishes the muscles and skin of the lower leg, and also gives off two terminal branches ( anterior and posterior tibial arteries), which supply blood to both the tissues of the lower leg and foot.
• Anterior tibial artery is located in the anterior region of the lower leg and gives its branches to the knee joint ( anterior and posterior recurrent tibial arteries), as well as to the ankles ( anterior ankle arteries).
• Posterior tibial artery is a continuation of the popliteal artery. The largest branch of the posterior tibial artery is the peroneal artery, which feeds the triceps muscle of the lower leg and its tendons, heel, ankles, and fibula. In addition, one of the branches of the posterior tibial artery supplies blood to the long peroneal muscle of the leg, as well as the soleus muscle ( circumflex artery).
• Dorsal artery of the foot(continuation of the anterior tibial artery) with its branches nourishes not only the bones of the metatarsus, tarsus, and phalanges, but also the ligaments, muscles and skin of the foot.

The veins of the lower extremities are conditionally divided into superficial and deep. Superficial veins pass through the thickness of the subcutaneous fat and form an extensive venous network.

The following most significant superficial veins are distinguished:

• Great saphenous vein of the leg originates on the dorsum of the foot. moving up ( to the femoral canal), this vein eventually drains into the femoral vein. Often the great saphenous vein is double. In this case, these veins can flow into the femoral vein in different places. In addition, the veins of the inguinal and iliac regions, as well as the veins of the anterior abdominal wall, flow into the great saphenous vein of the leg.
• Small saphenous vein of the leg starts from the outer edge of the dorsum of the foot, goes around the outer ankle and moves along the posterior surface of the lower leg. This vein perforates the popliteal fascia ( thin connective tissue membrane) and gives off two branches, one of which passes into the popliteal vein, and the other into the branch of the deep vein of the thigh. It is worth noting that the great and small saphenous veins of the leg communicate with each other ( have anastomoses).

Innervation of the legs

The following nerves of the lower limb are distinguished:

• sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the entire body and gives off a large number of branches. So, for example, the articular branch departs from the sciatic nerve, which innervates the capsule of the hip joint. Also, this nerve gives branches to the muscles of the gluteal region ( obturator internus and gemelus muscles) and thigh muscles ( quadriceps, biceps, semimembranosus, semitendinosus). Moving down the back of the thigh, the sciatic nerve in the upper corner of the popliteal fossa divides into two branches - the tibial and common peroneal nerve.
• tibial nerve is a continuation of the sciatic nerve. This nerve gives off many branches to the lower leg and foot. The muscular branches of the tibial nerve innervate the gastrocnemius, soleus, plantar, and popliteal muscles. Passing near the popliteal muscle, the tibial nerve gives off branches to the periosteum of the tibia, as well as to the joint capsule. The interosseous nerve of the leg innervates the vessels of the leg and the periosteum of the tibia and fibula. Moving down, the interosseous nerve gives off branches to the ankle joint and some muscles of the foot. The terminal branches of the tibial nerve are the medial ( interior), as well as lateral ( outer) plantar nerve. These branches innervate the skin, tendons and muscles of the foot.
• Common peroneal nerve originates in the popliteal fossa. With its branches, this nerve innervates the anterior group of muscles of the lower leg, as well as the skin of the anterior surface of the lower leg ( superficial peroneal nerve). Also, the common peroneal nerve innervates the skin of the dorsal foot ( intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve of the foot) and toes ( dorsal digital branches).
• femoral nerve in the region of the inguinal ligament is divided into 3 branches ( outer, inner and front). These branches innervate the quadriceps femoris, pectineus and sartorius muscles ( muscle branches). The femoral nerve also gives off branches to the skin of the anterior thigh and inner leg ( saphenous nerve of the leg, anterior cutaneous branches and medial cutaneous branches of the leg).

What pathologies lead to numbness in the legs?

The basis of the occurrence of numbness of the legs is irritation or damage to one or more superficial nerves. Ultimately, a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses along these nerves manifests itself in the appearance of a sensation of tingling, burning and numbness in the legs.

There are the following pathological conditions that can lead to numbness in the legs:

• tunnel neuropathies;
• vibration disease;
• endarteritis;
• varicose disease;
• thrombosis of the veins of the legs;
• leg injuries;

Sciatica

There are the following causes of sciatica:

• Lumbar osteochondrosis characterized by the destruction of the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs in the lumbar segment of the spine. With thinning and degradation, the cartilage of the intervertebral discs is no longer able to perform a shock-absorbing function, which leads to a decrease in the distance between the two nearest lumbar vertebrae. Ultimately, the last lumbar vertebrae begin to compress the very large sciatic nerve.
• osteophytes are pathological bone growths. Osteophytes can arise from the bodies of the vertebrae, including the lumbar. In some cases, large osteophytes can lead to compression and pinching of the sciatic nerve.
• piriformis syndrome manifested by inflammation and persistent spasm of the piriformis muscle. This muscle lies in the gluteal region, covering the sciatic nerve. Inflammation of the piriformis muscle leads to an increase and swelling of the muscle tissue, resulting in compression ( pinching) sciatic nerve. It is worth noting that piriformis syndrome is one of the most common tunnel syndromes ( compression of peripheral nerves in muscular-fibrous and bone-fibrous channels).
• Lumbar disc herniation manifested by protrusion of the central part of the disk ( nucleus pulposus) through a defect in the peripheral part ( fibrous plate ring). In some cases, a herniated disc can bulge laterally and compress the sciatic nerve.
• Displacement of the lumbar vertebrae ( spondylolisthesis) can occur due to trauma and excessive stress on the spine or as a result of some degenerative-dystrophic pathologies. Most often, the displacement occurs at the level of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, which causes sciatica.

Tunnel neuropathies

Tunnel neuropathies are often caused by injuries and microtraumas, physical activity, metabolic disorders in the body ( diabetes). Another cause of this pathology may be a hereditary predisposition to this pathology.

Compression of peripheral nerves leads to the development of an inflammatory reaction, as a result of which various biologically active substances are released that increase vascular permeability. As a result, the liquid part of the blood comes out of the vascular bed into the inflammation zone ( plasma), resulting in tissue edema. It is the swelling of the tissues that leads to compression of the peripheral nerves, manifesting itself as pain and numbness.

The following tunnel neuropathies are distinguished, which can lead to leg numbness:

• Tunnel neuropathy of the sciatic nerve ( piriformis syndrome) occurs due to inflammation and spasm of the piriformis muscle. In addition to numbness, the appearance of pain is characteristic, which is localized on the back of the thigh, lower leg and / or foot.
• Tunnel neuropathy of the femoral nerve is a consequence of compression of the femoral nerve at the level of the inguinal ligament. Damage to this nerve results in moderate to severe hip pain ( front and inner surface), shins and even feet. In addition, there is a violation of hip flexion, and with the progression of the pathology - atrophy ( marked weakening) quadriceps femoris.
• Tunnel neuropathy of the external femoral cutaneous nerve Roth-Bernhardt disease) characterized by the appearance of numbness and pain in the anterolateral region of the thigh. Most often, this tunnel neuropathy occurs when the aforementioned nerve is compressed to the ilium ( in the region of the anterior superior spine) while wearing tight corsets or belts. Pain is aggravated when walking, as well as while standing, but completely disappear if the patient is in a horizontal position.
• Tunnel neuropathy of the saphenous nerve of the thigh, as a rule, it appears against the background of compression of the saphenous nerve in the fascial gap, located just above the knee joint. The appearance of pain and numbness is characteristic not only in the area of ​​the anterointernal surface of the thigh, but also in the knee joint, lower leg and foot.
• Tunnel neuropathy of the tibial nerve ( tarsal tunnel syndrome, Morton's neuroma) manifested by severe pain and numbness in the toes and plantar surface of the foot. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur due to compression of the tibial nerve by varicose veins or an ankle injury, which often causes swelling of the tibial nerve.
• Tunnel neuropathy of the common peroneal nerve occurs due to compression of the nerve at the point of origin of the long peroneal muscle from the fibula. This tunnel neuropathy is characterized by the occurrence of pain in the lower leg ( outside surface), on the back of the foot, as well as on the inner surface of the first two toes. In addition, the extension of the foot and toes becomes almost impossible.

Stroke

The following pathologies can lead to a stroke:

• atherosclerosis ( decrease in the lumen of the arteries due to the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques);
• hypertension ( high blood pressure);
• diabetes;
• alcohol and drug abuse;
• hypercholesterolemia ( elevated blood cholesterol);
• previous cases of transient ischemic attack ( there is a temporary violation of the blood supply to the brain, which is completely restored within 10-20 minutes);
• various heart diseases arrhythmias).

Symptoms of a stroke may include:

• impaired consciousness ( stupor, loss of consciousness);
• deterioration of vision and the appearance of oculomotor disorders ( double vision, strabismus);
• limb paresis ( weakness in one of the limbs, which is accompanied by a feeling of numbness in it);
• limb paralysis ( complete loss of motor activity);
• lack of coordination of movements unsteady gait, unsteadiness, loss of balance, dizziness);
• sudden and severe headache;
• impaired speech or perception of words;
• memory disorder;
• indomitable vomiting;
• heartbeat.

Raynaud's disease

There are the following predisposing factors:

• endocrine diseases ( hypothyroidism);
• constant exposure to vibration associated with professional activities ( pavers, tractor drivers, drillers, polishers);
• polyvinyl chloride or mercury poisoning;
• overdose of certain drugs ( beta-blockers, cyclosporins, etc.);
• psycho-emotional stress;
• frequent hypothermia of the upper and lower extremities;
• leg injury;

There are the following stages of Raynaud's disease:

• Angiospastic stage ( 1 stage) characterized by the appearance of a short-term spasm of the terminal arteries, which make up the arterial network in the phalanges of the fingers or toes. At this stage of the disease, the skin of the fingers becomes pale and cold to the touch. In addition, there is a decrease in pain and tactile sensitivity. Decreased blood supply ischemia) in the phalanges of the fingers leads to a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses in the superficial nerves, which leads to numbness of the fingers and toes. Vascular spasm, as a rule, lasts for several minutes or tens of minutes, after which vascular tone is restored ( expansion of the lumen of the arteries) and the fingers return to their normal appearance and become warm.
• Angioparalytic stage ( 2 stage) characterized by the occurrence of paresis of the venous network ( violation of vascular tone) palms or feet. Paresis of the veins leads to a violation of the tone of the vascular wall and complete relaxation, which is manifested by congestion. Eventually, the fingers turn blue-violet ( cyanotic coloration) and edematous. The angioparalytic stage is manifested by persistent numbness, tingling and burning in the fingers. Often there is severe pain. It is worth noting that Raynaud's disease can begin not from the first, but immediately from the second stage.
• Trophoparalytic stage ( 3 stage) occurs with a prolonged course of the disease. Frequent spasms of the arteries and stagnation of blood in the veins leads to the necrosis of soft tissues, fatty tissue and the skin of the fingers. Frequent formation of ulcerations and felons is characteristic ( suppuration of the soft tissues of the fingers or toes). In addition, blisters with bloody contents may appear on the skin of the fingers, which, when opened, open long-term non-healing ulcers.

vibration sickness

With vibration disease, disturbances occur in the cardiovascular, nervous and musculoskeletal systems. However, the most sensitive to vibration is bone and nervous tissue. It is in the tissues of the peripheral nerves that pathological disorders first occur.

Under the influence of vibration, the mechanoreceptors of the skin of the fingers, as well as the superficial and deep nerves, are strongly irritated, which ultimately leads to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the local release of the hormone norepinephrine. The constant production of this hormone under the influence of vibration leads to its release and release into the bloodstream. Once in the blood, norepinephrine causes a persistent spasm of peripheral vessels, which is the main link in the pathogenesis of the disease ( process that triggers other pathological reactions).

The clinical manifestations of vibration disease largely depend on the frequency and type of vibration ( general, local or mixed), as well as on climatic factors ( humidity, air temperature) and factors production environment (noise, pressure).

The following manifestations of vibration disease caused by general vibration are distinguished:

• initial symptoms ( 1 stage) are manifested by transient numbness and tingling in the toes. These symptoms occur due to spasm of the vessels of the fingers, which leads to a violation of the innervation of the sensory nerves. The skin of the fingers becomes pale and cold to the touch. There is also moderate pain. In addition, already at the beginning of the disease, damage to the central nervous system is characteristic, which is manifested by irritability, increased fatigue, and the appearance of insomnia.
• Moderate symptoms ( 2 stage) occur against the background of frequent angiospasm ( vasospasm) toes and peripheral nerve damage. Pain in the fingers and foot intensify and become constant. In addition to numbness, there is a persistent decrease in tactile and pain sensitivity. Often there is lumbar osteochondrosis.
• severe symptoms ( 3 stage) vibration diseases arise due to the destruction of nerve cells of the peripheral and central nervous system ( demyelination). In addition to the above symptoms, such patients may experience depression, memory impairment, impaired coordination of movements, headache, dizziness, and heart rhythm disturbances.

Endarteritis

There are the following causes of endarteritis:

• presence of autoimmune antibodies in the body defeat of vessels by own molecules of the immune system leads to the growth of connective tissue and blockage of the lumen of the arteries);
• some infectious diseases syphilis, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, typhus);
• smoking abuse;
• leg injuries;
• frequent hypothermia of the lower extremities.

Endarteritis is characterized by the following manifestations:

• Leg numbness occurs due to impaired blood supply to sensory nerves. In the tissues of these nerves, there is a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses, which causes a burning sensation, numbness, tingling and crawling.
• Paleness and dryness of the skin of the lower extremities is a direct result of blockage of the arteries. With endarteritis, arterial blood is not able to reach the terminal arteries. Ultimately, the tissues of the feet do not receive oxygen and nutrients necessary for the implementation of various biochemical reactions, which is manifested by these symptoms. In addition, the skin of the feet becomes cold to the touch.
• Blue toenails occurs due to a decrease in the supply of oxygen to the tissues and the accumulation of unbound hemoglobin in them ( transport protein that donates oxygen to tissues). It is this form of hemoglobin that gives the tissues a bluish tinge. In addition, brittle nails occur.
• Severe pain in the legs at the initial stage, the disease occurs while running or during long walking ( intermittent claudication). This is due to the fact that during physical activity, the degree of consumption of oxygen and nutrients in the tissues increases. However, with partial blockage of blood vessels, arterial blood is not able to penetrate the tissues in sufficient quantities. Ultimately, degenerative-dystrophic processes occur in the cells, and they are destroyed ( including nerve endings). As endarteritis progresses, a complete blockage of the arteries occurs, which causes severe pain in the legs, not only during exercise, but also at rest.
• leg cramps indicate damage to nerve tissues, which are extremely sensitive to lack of oxygen. Even partial closure of the lumen of the arteries that feed the nerves leads to impaired excitability and conduction, which is often accompanied by convulsions. Most often, cramps appear in the calf muscles.
• Dry gangrene is the final stage of endarteritis. Complete blockage of the vessels of the lower extremities leads to the destruction of the tissues of the feet. Initially, severe pain occurs in the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe foot, which is stopped only with the help of narcotic painkillers. The affected part of the foot or the entire foot then becomes dark brown in color. The tissues gradually shrink, which gives the limb a mummified appearance.

Varicose disease

The following factors can lead to varicose veins:

• long stay in an extremely uncomfortable position;
• hypodynamia ( sedentary lifestyle);
• increased physical activity on the legs;
• obesity;
• genetic predisposition.

One of the frequent complications of varicose veins is thrombophlebitis, in which blood clots form in the affected veins that can partially or completely clog the lumen of the vessel.

For varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, the following symptoms are characteristic:

• limb edema associated with partial or complete impairment of venous outflow. As a result, a fairly large amount of blood accumulates in the venous network. Against the background of inflammation in the veins, various biologically active substances are released ( serotonin, bradykinin, histamine), which increase the permeability of blood vessels, which leads to the release of the liquid part of the blood ( plasma) into the surrounding tissues ( tissue edema formation).
• Pain and numbness in the lower extremities arise as a result of compression of pain endings and the superficial nerves themselves by edematous tissues. The pain is bursting in nature and, as a rule, occurs while walking or running. These pathologies are characterized by the appearance of numbness and pain in the calf muscles of the lower leg.
• Redness of the skin of the legs is a direct consequence of overflowing with blood of the superficial venous network. Also, red-blue spider veins often appear on the skin of the legs ( telangiectasia).
• Cramps in the lower limbs arise due to the presence of blood clots in the veins of the lower extremities, which lead to venous stasis. Spasm of the calf muscles is a consequence of compression of the nervous tissue.

Diabetes

In diabetes, the cells of the body become insensitive to the action of insulin. Normally, this hormone stimulates the penetration and utilization of glucose by the cells of the body, however, in diabetes mellitus, this mechanism of action is disrupted. As a result, a large amount of glucose, the main source of energy in the body, circulates in the blood for a long time. In this case, the cells begin to use fats as the main energy substrate. During the biochemical transformation of fats in the cell, a large number of ketone bodies are produced ( acetone, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, acetoacetic acid), which extremely adversely affect all tissues of the body without exception. The nervous system and blood vessels suffer the most in diabetes.

One of the complications of diabetes is the so-called diabetic foot syndrome. This syndrome occurs due to progressive damage to blood vessels, peripheral nerves, bones, muscles and skin of the feet and is characterized by frequent trauma and infection, which ultimately leads to purulent-necrotic processes ( phlegmon, abscess, gangrene). It should be noted that this syndrome often causes amputation of the lower extremities.

Symptoms of diabetic foot syndrome include:

• Decreased sensitivity of the skin of the legs occurs due to damage to peripheral nerves. In turn, the work of the peripheral nervous system is disrupted due to damage to small-caliber vessels, as a result of which the nerve cells cease to be supplied with blood in the required volume. It is these pathological processes that underlie the decrease in the sensitivity of the skin of all types ( pain, tactile, temperature sensitivity).
• Numbness in the feet also appears against the background of impaired blood supply to the nervous tissue. Ultimately, the process of transmission of nerve impulses is disrupted in the sensory nerves, which is manifested by burning, tingling, crawling and numbness in the legs.
• Nail deformation is a direct consequence of ischemia ( partial or complete cessation of arterial blood flow) foot tissues. Nail cells ( onychoblasts) undergo dystrophic changes, which leads to their degradation and change in shape. In addition, diabetic foot is characterized by frequent fungal infection of the nail plate. This is due to a decrease in local immunity.
• Intermittent claudication is a syndrome that is characterized by the occurrence or intensification of pulling pain in the lower extremities during walking. The cause of intermittent claudication in diabetes mellitus is damage to the peripheral nerves of the lower extremities, as well as small-caliber arteries.
• Trophic ulcers characterized by ulceration of the skin, which occurs against the background of a violation of the blood supply to the surface tissues. The affected area of ​​the skin undergoes necrosis ( tissue necrosis occurs) and becomes extremely sensitive to various traumatic factors and infections. It should be noted that in diabetes trophic ulcers, as a rule, are localized on the skin of the feet.
• Purulent-necrotic lesion of the foot, as a rule, occurs against the background of long-term non-healing trophic ulcers. The penetration of pyogenic bacteria ( streptococcal and staphylococcal infections) through a defect in the skin, leads to suppuration of the superficial, and then deep tissues of the foot. Penetration of staphylococci into the wound leads to an abscess ( local accumulation of pus), while when streptococci get under the skin, diffuse purulent tissue damage is observed ( phlegmon). In some cases, the blood supply to the tissues of the feet stops completely, which manifests itself in the form of gangrene ( necrosis and shrinkage of tissues).

Atherosclerosis

There are a large number of factors that contribute to the accumulation of cholesterol on the walls of arteries.

The following factors and pathologies lead to atherosclerosis:

• obesity;
• hyperlipidemia ( elevated blood cholesterol);
• eating large amounts of fatty foods;
• endocrine diseases ( diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism);
• hypodynamia ( sedentary lifestyle);
• high blood pressure ( hypertension);
• smoking;
• genetic predisposition.

Atherosclerosis of the lower extremities manifests itself as follows:

• Intermittent claudication is one of the main and early symptoms of atherosclerosis. Intermittent claudication is understood as the occurrence of pain and heaviness in the legs while walking due to a lack of blood supply. As a result, a sufficient amount of oxygen does not enter the cells of the muscle tissue, the work in them is disrupted and this leads to microtrauma in the muscles. It is these microtraumas that cause pain in the legs.
• Pale and cold feet. Occlusion ( blockage) of the superficial arteries of the thigh, lower leg and / or feet leads to the fact that arterial blood is not able to reach and fully nourish the deep and superficial tissues of the foot. Ultimately, the metabolic activity of the cells in the foot area drops significantly, and the skin becomes pale, cold and dry.
• Numbness, tingling and burning ( paresthesia) in the calf muscles and in the feet can occur as during physical exertion ( at the onset of the disease) and at rest ( with complete blockage of the arteries). This is due to a violation of the blood supply to the superficial nerves.
• Painful spasms of the leg muscles arise due to a violation of the normal conduction of nerve impulses along the fibers of the superficial and deep nerves of the lower extremities. Ultimately, these lead to persistent and painful contractions of the calf muscles.
• Gangrene occurs in the case of complete blockage of one or several arteries of the lower limb. Intense pain appears in the area of ​​​​the foot deprived of blood supply ( cells begin to die). In the future, the skin of the affected segment acquires a brown or black tint due to the release of iron sulfide from damaged cells and its oxidation under the influence of atmospheric air. The foot takes on a mummified appearance due to the drying of dead tissues.

Thrombosis of the veins of the legs

According to the classic Virchow triad, phlebothrombosis is caused by a change in blood viscosity, damage to the walls of the venous network, and venous stasis. In addition, there are a number of diseases that play a significant role in the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities.

The following predisposing factors lead to thrombosis of the veins of the legs:

• Varicose veins ( persistent deformity and varicose veins);
• leg injury ( damage to the walls of the veins);
• bleeding disorders ( reduced activity of anticoagulants S and C, antithrombin and other factors);
• smoking;
• obesity;
• diabetes;
• taking certain medications hormonal contraceptives);
• long stay in a stationary horizontal position ( against the backdrop of bed rest).

Phlebothrombosis is characterized by the following symptoms:

• limb edema occurs due to stagnation of blood in the deep vein system of the lower extremity. Ultimately, part of the plasma ( liquid part of blood) exits the bloodstream into the surrounding tissues.
• Pain and discomfort in the lower extremities occurs after short walks ( no more than 1000 meters). With physical activity, venous congestion increases. This leads to the fact that the walls of the veins are strongly stretched, and the mechanoreceptors that are part of the vascular wall ( perceive mechanical influences by the type of compression or stretching), are strongly excited, which is perceived as pain.
• Leg numbness is a non-permanent sign of phlebothrombosis. This symptom indicates compression of the superficial nerves by edematous tissue. In this case, numbness most often occurs in the lower leg and foot.

leg injury

The following types of leg injuries can lead to numbness:

• Fracture of the hip, leg or foot often accompanied by prolonged numbness of some parts of the lower extremities. This is due to the fact that exposure to a traumatic factor can directly damage sensory nerves. In addition, in the case of a fragmental fracture, there is a possibility of damage to these nerve structures by bone fragments.
• Compression of the nerves of the lower limb may occur due to a long stay in an uncomfortable position during wakefulness ( sitting cross-legged) or in a dream. In this case, it is extremely common to experience temporary numbness, burning and tingling in the leg. With a crash syndrome that occurs with prolonged squeezing of limb tissues ( during earthquake debris) in addition to numbness and pain in the limb, shock and acute renal failure also develop ( damage to muscle tissue leads to the release of myoglobin, which has a toxic effect on the renal tubules).
• Injury of tissues of the lower extremities- a common cause of leg numbness in athletes ( soccer players, handball players). The nerves of the lower leg and foot are most often injured, since they are practically not covered by a layer of muscles, fatty tissue and connective tissue. The most superficial is the tibial nerve ( in the area of ​​the inner ankle). Even an insignificant contusion of the medial ( internal) of the ankle can lead to severe pain, partial loss of tactile sensitivity and numbness of the foot.

Hypothermia and frostbite of the feet

Factors that contribute to frostbite of the feet:

• tight shoes;
• increased sweating of the feet foot hyperhidrosis);
• wet shoes or socks;
• long stay in an uncomfortable position;
• prolonged lack of movement in the limbs;
• pathology of the vessels of the lower extremities ( atherosclerosis, endarteritis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins of the lower extremities).

There are the following degrees of frostbite of the limbs:

• mild degree ( 1 degree) occurs with a short exposure to low temperature on the limbs. The skin of the feet becomes pale and cold ( decreased blood supply to tissues). In some cases, the skin may have a bluish tinge ( accumulation of unbound hemoglobin in the skin). In addition, aseptic tissue inflammation may develop ( damage to cell membranes by the cold factor), which leads to edema. Numbness occurs due to damage to the nerve cells that make up the superficial nerves. Mild frostbite is characterized by a burning sensation and pain in the foot and/or lower leg. Pain syndrome can be of varying intensity.
• Average degree ( 2 degree) frostbite is also manifested by pain and burning, but the pain syndrome in this case is more pronounced. These symptoms persist for several days. On the affected areas of the skin of the lower extremities, blisters of various sizes appear, which are filled with a clear liquid. Within a few weeks, these bubbles are rejected, and the defect under them regenerates without scarring.
• Severe degree ( 3 degree) accompanied by severe pain. Pain is a consequence of the destruction of cells of superficial and deep tissues. Blisters with bloody fluid form at the site of frostbite. Subsequently ( after 15 – 20 days) scar tissue forms at the site of the lesion. Affected nails are rejected and no longer grow back or grow back, but with severe deformation.
• Extremely severe ( 4 degree) Frostbite causes damage not only to the skin, fat and muscles, but also to joints and bones. Skin temperature does not exceed 5 - 7ºС. This stage is not characterized by the formation of blisters, however, significant tissue edema remains. Damage to the nervous tissue and blood vessels leads to the loss of all types of sensitivity.

Causes of hip numbness

The most common causes of hip numbness include the following pathologies:

• sciatica;
• piriformis syndrome;
• femoral nerve injury;
• tunnel neuropathy of the femoral nerve;
• Bernhardt-Roth disease;
• phlebothrombosis;
• atherosclerosis;
• stroke.

Sciatica

In the diagnosis of sciatica, the following methods are used:

• X-ray examination of the lumbar region is a standard method for diagnosing various pathologies of the spine, which lead to compression and inflammation of the sciatic nerve. An x-ray of the lumbar spine can reveal various signs of diseases leading to sciatica. These signs include displacement of the vertebrae of the lumbar spine, the presence of osteophytes ( bony outgrowths on the vertebrae), as well as a decrease in the gap between the vertebrae ( occurs with osteochondrosis).
• Computed or magnetic resonance imaging allows you to evaluate not only the condition of the vertebrae, but also to identify various injuries at the level of intervertebral discs, muscles and ligaments. In addition, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging help to accurately determine the location of compression of the sciatic nerve, as well as the degree of this pinching. It is worth noting that tomography is the most effective diagnostic method, allowing you to accurately confirm or refute the alleged diagnosis.

For the treatment of sciatica, the following drugs and procedures are used:

• Pain medications allow you to stop moderate pain, which is an integral symptom of inflammation of the sciatic nerve. In most cases, analgesics such as ibuprofen, analgin, paracetamol or aspirin are prescribed. It is also recommended to use various ointments or gels based on ketoprofen or diclofenac.
• Lumbo-sacral blocks are used only in case of severe and persistent pain in the buttock and leg. To do this, the doctor injects an anesthetic into a special point ( novocaine or lidocaine) or a hormonal anti-inflammatory drug ( betamethasone).
• Physiotherapy complements medical treatment. The most commonly prescribed sessions are acupuncture, UHF ( ), magnetotherapy. These physiotherapeutic procedures can reduce the severity of pain and accelerate the recovery of damaged tissues. In addition, therapeutic massage and therapeutic exercises are prescribed in the rehabilitation period.

piriformis syndrome

In the diagnosis of piriformis syndrome, the following manual tests are used:

• Symptom Bonnet-Bobrovnikova(if passive flexion of the hip and knee joint is performed in the adducted lower limb, pain occurs along the course of the sciatic nerve);
• Grossman's symptom(when hit with a hammer on the sacrum or on the lumbar vertebrae, a reflex contraction of the gluteal muscle is observed on the affected side);
• Vilenkin's symptom (when tapping with a hammer on the piriformis muscle, pain occurs).

During the treatment of piriformis syndrome, the following are used:

• Anti-inflammatory and pain medications help reduce swelling of the inflamed muscle fibers of the piriformis muscle. Ultimately, the degree of compression of the sciatic nerve decreases, and the pain gradually subsides. As a rule, anti-inflammatory drugs are used externally ( ketoprofen, indomethacin, nimesulide, diclofenac).
• Muscle relaxants cause complete or almost complete relaxation of skeletal muscles. Taking muscle relaxants in most cases eliminates the pathological tension of the piriformis muscle. Muscle relaxants such as baclofen or tizanidine may be prescribed.
• Therapeutic blockade of the piriformis muscle is necessary if the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. When performing this manipulation, the doctor injects 8-10 ml of novocaine or lidocaine solution directly into the inflamed piriformis muscle.
• Physiotherapy procedures contribute to the reduction of edema, and also help to relieve pain in this tunnel neuropathy. A therapeutic massage is shown, as well as a specially selected set of exercises included in therapeutic gymnastics. Acupuncture and pharmacopuncture also have a good effect ( injection of small doses of medication into acupuncture points).

femoral nerve injury

For femoral nerve injury, the following tests are performed:

• Symptom Wasserman (if the patient lies on his stomach and raises his outstretched leg up, then pain occurs in the thigh);
• Matskevich's symptom (in a prone position, if you try to bend the affected leg at the knee, then pain will appear in the thigh).

In diagnostics, the following research methods are used:

• Electroneuromyography is a method that allows you to register bioelectrical impulses that occur in skeletal muscles. The electrical activity of the thigh muscles is first examined at rest, and then during involuntary and voluntary muscle contractions. This method allows you to determine the depth and degree of damage to the femoral nerve.
• CT scan helps to find out in which area the femoral nerve lesion has occurred. In addition, this highly informative method allows you to visualize various volumetric formations ( e.g. hematoma) in the retroperitoneal space, which can compress the femoral nerve and cause damage.

Depending on the degree and type of damage to the femoral nerve, treatment can be either conservative or surgical. The conservative method of treatment is based on the use of drugs that have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects.

Treatment of traumatic injury to the femoral nerve involves the use of the following drugs:

• Analgesic ( painkillers) drugs prescribed for moderate or mild hip pain. Most often, analgin and baralgin or combined painkillers such as pentalgin are used. In the event of persistent pain, it is advisable to prescribe therapeutic novocaine blockades.
• Therapeutic blockades allow medication to be administered anesthetic and/or glucocorticoid) directly into the affected area, which almost immediately gives a positive therapeutic effect. as anesthetics ( painkillers) use novocaine or lidocaine. It is also possible to administer steroid hormones ( dexamethasone), which suppress inflammation, eliminate swelling and pain.
• B vitamins allow to improve metabolic processes and accelerate the process of regeneration of peripheral nerves. It is advisable to prescribe the intake of vitamins B1, B6 and B12.
• Physiotherapy help restore muscle tone in the quadriceps femoris and other muscle groups that can be significantly weakened due to damage to the femoral nerve. Electrical muscle stimulation has a good therapeutic effect. For the period of treatment, as well as during the rehabilitation period, a course of therapeutic exercises and massage is prescribed.

Tunnel neuropathy of the femoral nerve

It is important to conduct a thorough neurological examination, which reveals motor and sensory disorders of the anterior and inner thigh and lower leg, as well as weakening or even atrophy ( reduction in muscle volume and their degeneration) quadriceps femoris. The diagnosis is confirmed by electroneuromyography. This method allows you to evaluate the electrical activity of the skeletal muscles of the thigh. Based on the results of electroneuromyography, one can judge the degree of damage to the femoral nerve.

Treatment of tunnel neuropathy of the femoral nerve is carried out conservatively. In most cases, therapeutic blockades are used.

The following drugs and procedures are used in the treatment of femoral tunnel neuropathy:

• Therapeutic blockade with the introduction of glucocorticoids ( dexamethasone) are the most effective treatment for femoral tunnel neuropathy. The drug is injected in the immediate vicinity of the affected nerve, just below the inguinal ligament. The drug from the group of glucocorticoids not only relieves inflammation and swelling, but also eliminates pain and allows the tissues of the damaged nerve to recover faster ( remyelination).
• Anticonvulsants used to relieve pain. Drugs from this group ( gabapentin, pregabalin) reduce the excitability of the nerve fibers that make up the nociceptive system ( pain perception system).
• vitamin therapy also included in conservative therapy. The use of vitamins can significantly accelerate the process of regeneration of the nervous tissue. Most often prescribed vitamins from group B ( B1, B6, B12).
• Physiotherapy procedures ( therapeutic massage and acupuncture) contribute to the restoration of the affected nerve, reduce swelling and pain in the thigh.

Phlebothrombosis

The following diagnostic methods allow to confirm the diagnosis of phlebothrombosis:

• duplex scanning is an ultrasound diagnostic method, in which ultrasound examination of tissues and Dopplerography are carried out simultaneously ( study the rate of blood flow). The results of duplex scanning of the veins of the lower extremities make it possible to judge the state and shape of the vessels, as well as to identify impaired patency of the veins. In addition, this non-invasive method ( without disruption of tissue integrity) allows detecting hemodynamic disturbances ( blood supply function).
• Venography is an X-ray examination of the venous network ( superficial and deep) using a radiopaque agent. Venography allows you to detect narrowing of the lumen of the veins, as well as to detect blood clots. This method is a subspecies of magnetic resonance angiography.

conservative(non-surgical)treatment of phlebothrombosis involves the use of the following medications:

• Anticoagulant ( anticoagulants) drugs inhibit the formation of new blood clots and the growth of existing ones by inhibiting the activity of the blood coagulation system. As a rule, prescribe to take heparin or clexane.
• Phleboprotectors normalize the tone of the venous wall, have some anti-inflammatory effect, and also improve lymphatic outflow. The most common drugs from this group are troxevasin and diosmin.
• Disaggregants ( blood-thinning drugs) inhibit platelet aggregation platelets) and erythrocytes ( red blood cells), which significantly reduces the risk of thrombosis. Most often, patients with phlebothrombosis are prescribed to take aspirin ( acetylsalicylic acid).
• necessary to reduce the severity of the inflammatory reaction from the wall of the venous vessels. In addition, this group of drugs also has a moderate analgesic effect. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( based on ketoprofen or diclofenac) can be taken orally ( in tablet form) or rectally ( in the form of candles).

Surgery is indicated when multiple blood clots are found and to prevent pulmonary embolism.

For the treatment of phlebothrombosis, the following surgical methods are used:

• Cava filter implantation is a method of endovascular intervention, in which a special mesh device is implanted into the cavity of the inferior pudendal vein ( filter). This filter is able to capture and retain blood clots that can migrate from the blood streams from the deep vein system of the lower extremities.
• Thrombectomy- a surgical operation to remove a blood clot. Thrombectomy can be performed in the traditional way or with the help of endovascular surgery. In the first case, the surgeon cuts the wall of the vessel with subsequent extraction of the thrombus, and in the second case, a special catheter is inserted into the lumen of the vessel, through which the thrombus is removed. The endovascular method for the treatment of phlebothrombosis is more effective and safer than the traditional method.

Atherosclerosis

To clarify the diagnosis of atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, the doctor prescribes some additional research methods.

The following instrumental methods are used to diagnose atherosclerosis:

• Doppler ultrasound ( duplex scanning) is a form of ultrasound that detects slowing of blood flow in the arteries and also reveals the presence of atherosclerotic plaques.
• Computed tomography with contrast allows you to assess the condition of the wall of large arteries of the lower limb ( femoral, popliteal). This diagnostic method is used to determine the localization and degree of damage to the arteries by atherosclerosis. It should be noted that the choice of surgical treatment method is based on the results of computed tomography.
• is an alternative method for diagnosing blood vessels, which is based on the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance. Unlike computed tomography, magnetic resonance angiography does not use x-rays. This method also makes it possible to judge with high accuracy the localization and degree of obliteration ( blockage) arteries of the lower extremities.

Conservative treatment involves taking the following drugs:

• Lipid-lowering drugs are a heterogeneous group of drugs that interfere with intestinal absorption of cholesterol, increase its excretion from the body, or reduce its formation. This group of drugs includes cholestyramine, guarem, medostatin, lipanor, etc.
• Angioprotectors protect the inner wall of the arteries and increase its resistance to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Most often, etamsylate, parmidine, escusan, troxevasin are used.

In atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities, the following types of operations are used:

• Endarterectomy- an operation in which access to the affected vessel is carried out through a small incision in the skin. During the operation, the blood flow is blocked in the desired section of the artery, after which the atherosclerotic plaque is removed along with the affected inner wall of the vessel. After the operation is completed, the blood supply to the artery is restored, and the tissues are sutured in layers.
• Artery prosthesis is an alternative method of surgical treatment, which is increasingly used in modern vascular surgery. The surgeon ligates the affected vessel and then replaces it with a synthetic prosthesis or a segment of one of the patient's own veins.
• Shunting is a method in which, using a shunt ( artificial vessel) an additional path is created for blood flow ( collateral blood supply) bypassing the affected vessel. As a result, the artery affected by atherosclerosis is completely excluded from the blood supply system.

Stroke

To clarify the diagnosis, the following additional research methods are carried out:

• are the most highly informative methods for diagnosing stroke. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain is more commonly used to detect ischemic stroke ( cerebrovascular accident), while computed tomography helps to detect traces of hemorrhagic stroke ( hemorrhage in the brain).
• Magnetic resonance angiography allows you to assess the state of the vessels of the brain ( identify functional and anatomical disorders of the arteries and veins). During this research method, a special contrast agent can be injected, which helps to better visualize the vessels.

The following drugs are used to treat the consequences of ischemic stroke:

• Thrombolytics- drugs that help dissolve blood clots. Taking these drugs helps to restore blood circulation in the cerebral arteries, which avoids further damage to neurons ( nerve cells) brain. Thrombolytics such as alteplase and recombinant prourokinase have proven themselves well. It should be noted that the use of these drugs is limited due to the fact that there is a risk of transition of ischemic stroke to hemorrhagic.
• Neuroprotectors are a heterogeneous group of drugs that normalize metabolic processes in the nerve cells of the brain. These drugs reduce the need for neurons in the energy substrate ( adenosine triphosphate), protect the membrane of neurons, and also improve metabolism at the cellular level. These mechanisms reduce the risk of developing various severe consequences of ischemic stroke. The drugs in this group include piracetam, ceraxon, phezam, cinnarizine, oxybral and others.

The following medicines are used to treat the consequences of hemorrhagic stroke:

• Antihypertensive drugs allow to reduce blood pressure values, which significantly improves the prognosis for ischemic stroke. Antihypertensive drugs include diuretics ( furosemide, lasix), beta-blockers ( bisoprolol, metoprolol, atenolol), calcium channel blockers ( verapamil, diltiazem, nifedipine), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors ( captopril, ramipril, enalapril). Quite often, drugs such as Gordox and Contrical are used.
• Drugs that strengthen the vascular wall, normalize metabolic processes and accelerate the process of regeneration of damaged vessels. This group of medicines includes calcium gluconate, calcium chloride, vikasol and some other drugs.

Causes of leg numbness

Numbness in the lower leg can occur against the background of the following pathologies:

• sciatica;
• atherosclerosis;
• diabetes;
• phlebothrombosis;
• stroke.

The most common causes of leg numbness include the following diseases:

• leg injury;
• varicose disease;
• tunnel neuropathy of the common peroneal nerve.

Calf injury

When a shin is bruised, severe pain first occurs directly in the place where the injury was received. In the future, there is swelling of the tissues of the lower leg. The increase in edema can lead to compression of the sensory branches of the superficial nerves, which is accompanied by numbness, tingling and loss of tactile sensitivity. With severe bruising, which is accompanied by irritation of the periosteum of the tibia or fibula, extremely severe pain can occur. In this case, to exclude or confirm the presence of a more serious pathology, it is necessary to take an x-ray.

With a fracture of the upper part of the fibula ( proximal end) very often there is damage to the peroneal nerve. This pathology is characterized by such symptoms as loss of sensation on the outer surface of the lower leg and the back of the foot, numbness and burning in these segments, as well as weakness of the muscles that are responsible for extension of the ankle joint and fingers. In turn, with a fracture of the tibia ( at the top) the corresponding nerve is often damaged ( tibial nerve). This leads to a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses and the occurrence of numbness along the course of this nerve ( along the back of the leg and the sole of the foot). In addition, there is weakness of the flexor muscles of the lower leg and toes.

In order to confirm the presence of damage to the nerves of the lower leg, they resort to electromyoneurography. This method is based on recording the electrical activity of muscle fibers. The results of electromyoneurography allow us to speak about the degree of damage to the peroneal or tibial nerve.

Depending on the degree of nerve damage ( partial or complete break), treatment can be both conservative and surgical. If the integrity of the nervous tissue is not completely broken, then in this case they resort to the use of painkillers ( based on ketoprofen and diclofenac), B vitamins ( B1, B6, B12), drugs that improve the conduction of impulses through nerve tissues ( prozerin, ipidacrine), as well as drugs that can improve peripheral circulation ( pentoxifylline, doxilek).

In addition, conservative treatment is combined with the following physiotherapy procedures:

• Electromyostimulation is one of the methods of rehabilitation therapy. During this procedure, nerves and muscles are subjected to electrical stimulation. Electromyostimulation significantly accelerates the recovery of motor function of skeletal muscles.
• Therapeutic leg massage accelerates the recovery of nerve fibers of the peroneal or tibial nerve, improves the nutrition of superficial and deep tissues ( including muscles).
• Physiotherapy allows you to develop atrophied muscles. Specially selected exercises must be performed both during treatment and in the post-rehabilitation period.

Varicose disease

To confirm the diagnosis of varicose veins, the following additional research methods are carried out:

• allows you to assess the state of the superficial and deep venous network. The results of this method help to detect varicose veins and disorders of venous blood flow.
• Venography- X-ray examination of the veins using a contrast substance. Thanks to venography, it is possible to detect dilated and deformed sections of the veins, as well as to identify blood clots.
• Magnetic resonance imaging allows you to detect not only signs of varicose veins, but also to assess the surrounding tissues ( muscles, ligaments, bones).

Conservative treatment involves taking the following medications:

• Thrombolytics cause intravascular dissolution of blood clots, which leads to the restoration of the outflow of venous blood. The mechanism of action of this drug group is aimed at the activation of plasmin ( protein that destroys thrombotic masses). Thrombolytics include drugs such as alteplase, streptokinase, prourokinase, and tenecteplase.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit the development of an inflammatory reaction at the level of the venous wall. By suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators ( biologically active substances that are responsible for the development of inflammation), these drugs reduce the severity of edema and reduce the intensity of pain in the lower leg. Most often, drugs are used, the basis of which is diclofenac or ketoprofen.
• anticoagulants ( anticoagulants) to a certain extent, they slow down the growth of existing blood clots, and also prevent new blood clots from forming. This group of drugs directly affects some components of the blood coagulation system, inhibiting their activity. With varicose veins, clexane, heparin or fraxiparin are most often prescribed.
• Phlebotonics and phleboprotectors- drugs that improve venous outflow from the lower extremities, stabilize the cell membranes of the vascular wall, and also eliminate pain and heaviness in the legs. As a rule, detralex and antistax are prescribed.

Tunnel neuropathy of the common peroneal nerve

The diagnosis of this tunnel neuropathy is handled by a neurologist. Physical and neurological examination reveals foot drop due to weakness of the extensor muscles of the foot and toes. In advanced cases, atrophy of the anterior leg muscles occurs. To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe some additional studies.

In the diagnosis of tunnel neuropathy of the common peroneal nerve, the following instrumental methods are used:

• Magnetic resonance and computed tomography helps to identify the deformation of the fibula at the level of its head, as well as directly squeezing the most common peroneal nerve in the region of the canal of the same name.
• Electroneuromyography- a method that registers bioelectric impulses that occur in the skeletal muscles. The results of electroneuromyography help to assess the degree of damage to the common peroneal nerve.

Conservative treatment of tunnel neuropathy of the common peroneal nerve is effective only at the initial stage of the disease, when nerve conduction disturbances are not so critical. In this case, a course of therapeutic massage, electrical stimulation of the muscles of the anterior leg group and the intake of B vitamins are prescribed ( B1, B6, B12). In addition, drugs are prescribed that improve the conduction of nerve impulses ( ipidacrine and prozerin), as well as normalize the blood supply to peripheral tissues ( doxilec and pentoxifylline).

In a situation where a conservative method of treatment does not contribute to the restoration of a damaged nerve, they resort to surgical treatment. During such an operation, the nerve is decompressed, eliminating excessive pressure on the nerve trunk from the surrounding tissues. Then plastic surgery of the common peroneal canal is performed by strengthening its walls.

Causes of numbness in toes

The most common causes of toe numbness include the following pathologies:

• frostbite;
• diabetic foot;
• endarteritis;
• Raynaud's disease;
• vibration disease;
• Morton's neuroma.

frostbite

The following drugs can be used to treat frostbite:

• Angioprotectors- protect the vascular wall, increasing the stability of cell membranes, and also inhibit the development of an inflammatory reaction at the level of blood vessels. As a rule, drugs such as parmidine, troxevasin, aescusan are used.
• Anticoagulants inhibit the formation of blood clots in veins of different calibers. The most commonly used is heparin.
• Antibiotics used when there is a possibility of infection of the skin ( the presence of cracks, abrasions or wounds on the skin). In this case, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used ( ampicillin, gentamicin, ofloxacin, lincomycin, etc.).

diabetic foot

Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and diabetic foot) is an endocrinologist. However, to determine the severity of the disease, as a rule, consultation with a neurologist, ophthalmologist, orthopedist, or surgeon is required. First, all complaints of the patient are taken into account ( history taking), and then the doctor examines the lower extremities to identify such characteristic symptoms as a violation of the sensitivity of the skin ( pain and tactile), peeling, depigmentation ( skin pigmentation disorders), lack of pulse on the arteries of the feet, trophic ulcers, infected wounds, deformity of the joints and bones of the feet.

To confirm the diagnosis of "diabetic foot" quite often resort to the use of the following methods of instrumental and laboratory diagnostics:

• General blood analysis able to detect signs of inflammation - leukocytosis ( an increase in the number of white blood cells), increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the appearance of proteins of the acute phase of inflammation. Due to the increased traumatization of the skin, various pathogenic ( pathogenic) and opportunistic bacteria quite often penetrate into superficial and deep tissues, causing various purulent-necrotic processes ( infection, suppuration and tissue destruction).
• Blood chemistry allows you to detect not only an elevated blood glucose level, but also to determine an increase in cholesterol levels ( low and very low density lipoproteins), which contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries.
• Ultrasound duplex scanning helps to detect various changes at the level of the walls of the vessels of the lower extremities, as well as to determine the slowdown in blood flow in the peripheral vessels ( color duplex mapping).
• Foot x-ray needed when a doctor suspects diabetic osteoarthropathy ( damage to the bones and joints of the foot on the background of diabetes mellitus). The metatarsal and tarsal bones and joints of the foot are most commonly affected.
• Bacteriological culture of contents from wounds carried out to identify and determine the species of pathogens ( various bacteria), which cause suppuration of wounds and ulcers.

Conservative treatment involves the use of the following medications:

• Antidiabetic drugs are the basis of all medical treatment. Depending on the level of glucose in the blood, various pills may be prescribed ( maninil, avandia, siofor and others) or insulin ( in case of ineffectiveness of tablets).
• Antibiotics are necessary in the case when there is a risk of developing suppuration of the wound or with an already existing purulent-necrotic process ( abscess, phlegmon, gangrene). In wounds that have arisen for the first time, staphylococci and streptococci predominate. In this case protected penicillins are prescribed ( amoxiclav, liklav), lincosamides ( lincomycin, clindamycin) or cephalosporins ( cefazolin, cephalexin). In advanced cases, a combination of lincosamides, penicillins, or aminoglycosides is prescribed ( streptomycin, gentamicin). It should be noted that the success of antibiotic therapy directly depends on the level of sugar in the blood. With untreated diabetes mellitus, there is a high probability of re-suppuration of the wound.
• Angioprotectors- drugs that improve microcirculation ( peripheral blood supply), reduce the likelihood of blood clots, increase the stability of the vascular wall. Angioprotectors include drugs such as doxilek, antistax and pentoxifylline.
• Painkillers also included in the basic treatment regimen. The most commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) analgin, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, diclofenac), which not only relieve mild to moderate pain, but also suppress inflammation and reduce tissue swelling.

Endarteritis

For the diagnosis of obliterating endarteritis, the following functional research methods are used:

• Arterial Oscillometry is a method of recording oscillations of the walls of arterial vessels. The results of oscillometry make it possible to assess the elasticity of the vessels. It is worth noting that this method used only when the patency of the arteries is only partially impaired. Otherwise ( with complete blockage of the arteries), oscillations of the walls of the studied arteries are not determined.
• Capillaroscopy– method for studying the capillary network ( tiny vessels) under a special microscope - a capillaroscope. Thanks to this research method, it is possible to judge various pathological conditions that led to microcirculation disorders.
• duplex scanning is a combined method for studying blood vessels ( ultrasound and dopplerography). This method of research helps to obtain detailed information about the state of blood vessels ( the shape and lumen of the vessels, at what level the blockage of the vessel occurs, etc.). In addition, duplex scanning reveals various disorders in hemodynamics ( speed and direction of blood flow).
• Foot x-ray allows you to detect both minor and pronounced changes in the bone tissue of the feet ( thinning of the top layer of the bone), as well as signs of osteoporosis ( decrease in bone density).

Treatment of endarteritis is based on the use of the following drugs:

• Angioprotectors improve the stability of the walls of arteries of medium and small caliber, and also reduce the severity of inflammatory processes. The most commonly prescribed drugs are pentoxifylline and doxilek.
• Blood-thinning drugs reduce the viscosity and blood clotting, which facilitates the course of obliterating endarteritis. As a rule, they are prescribed to take heparin or phenylin.
• Painkillers are an integral part of conservative treatment. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( aspirin, analgin, ibuprofen) allows you to eliminate pain, as well as reduce tissue swelling and the severity of inflammatory processes.
• Antibiotics prescribed in the case when a bacterial infection joins against the background of endarteritis. As a rule, cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, or lincosamides are prescribed.

Surgical treatment is used for progressive trophic changes, which ultimately lead to tissue necrosis and gangrene, as well as for severe pain in the calf muscles at rest. During the operation, impaired blood circulation is restored with the help of special stents that expand the affected segment of the vessel and hold them in this position.

Raynaud's disease

To confirm the diagnosis, the following research methods are most often resorted to:

• Clinical blood test helps to detect an increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate ( COE). Detection of elevated values ​​of SOE gives the right to speak about the presence of the current inflammatory process.
• Arterial Oscillometry- a method that registers vibrations of the walls of arteries. Arterial oscillometry allows assessing the elasticity of the wall of peripheral vessels, which makes it possible to speak about the general condition of the arteries.
• duplex scan allows you to detect various disorders in hemodynamics, and also provides information about the state of the arteries.
• Immunological studies help detect autoantibodies ( protein molecules of the immune system), which infect their own cells, including cells of the vascular wall. In addition, a rheumatological factor is identified, which is characteristic of many autoimmune diseases.

The following groups of medicines are used to treat Raynaud's disease:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have moderate anti-inflammatory, decongestant and analgesic ( painkillers) action. As a rule, this group is prescribed to take analgin, paracetamol or ibuprofen tablets.
• Calcium channel blockers- a group of heterogeneous drugs that affect the heart and blood vessels. These drugs block the penetration of calcium ions into the smooth muscles of the vascular wall, thereby causing a persistent expansion of arteries and veins. It should be noted that calcium channel blockers have a greater effect on arteries and arterioles ( small caliber arteries). The most commonly prescribed are verapamil, diltiazem, or cinnarizine.
• Microcirculation correctors and angioprotectors are a group of medicines that help normalize blood circulation in peripheral vessels, and also have a vasoprotective effect ( protect the walls of blood vessels). Vazaprostan and doxilek have a good therapeutic effect.

vibration sickness

In the diagnosis of vibration disease, the following methods are used:

• cold test helps to identify dysfunctions ( pathological changes) of the sympathetic nervous system, which occur with vibration disease. During this method, one foot is placed in a bath of cold water, while blood pressure is periodically measured on the other. With vibration disease, during a cold test, blood pressure on an intact foot rises by more than 25-30 mm. rt. Art.
• Capillaroscopy is a method for studying the smallest vessels ( capillaries) under a microscope. The results of capillaroscopy reveal spasm of the smallest arteries ( arterioles), which is a leading sign of vibrational disease.
• Thermometry of the lower extremities carried out in order to detect a low temperature of the skin of the feet. Normally, the temperature of the skin of the feet, as a rule, is 27 - 30ºС. With spasm of peripheral vessels, the temperature can drop to 20ºС and below.

In the treatment of vibration disease, the following groups of drugs are used:

• Vasodilators directly affect peripheral vessels, causing their persistent expansion ( vasodilation). As a rule, nicotinic acid is prescribed ( vitamin B3 or PP), in combination with pentoxifylline ( eliminates vasospasm).
• Ganglioblockers reduce the conduction of nerve impulses along the sympathetic nerves, which helps to eliminate spasm of the smooth muscles of the arteries ( including peripheral). For the treatment of vibration disease, ganglion blockers such as benzohexonium or pempidine are used.
• Calcium channel blockers inhibit the penetration of calcium molecules into the muscle cells of blood vessels, thereby reducing their tone. These drugs have a pronounced vasodilating effect.

Morton's neuroma

Treatment for Morton's neuroma depends on the degree of foot deformity. Most often, drug treatment is used, and only in very advanced cases, surgery may be necessary.

Conservative treatment for Morton's neuroma includes:

• Physiotherapy helps to reduce the severity of the inflammatory process, eliminating pain in the area of ​​​​squeezing the nerve, as well as improving the blood supply to tissues. A therapeutic massage is performed in the area of ​​compression of the plantar nerve of the foot, using acupuncture ( acupuncture), and also apply heating of the affected segment of the foot with paraffin or ozocerite applications ( heat therapy).
• Steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Usually, a solution of a hormonal drug is injected into the place of maximum pain ( dexamethasone) together with an anesthetic ( lidocaine or novocaine). This blockade eliminates inflammation and swelling and thereby reduces the degree of nerve compression.

Why does leg numbness occur with an intervertebral hernia?

Frequent injuries of the spine, the impact of heavy loads on the spinal column and osteochondrosis ( pathology in which dystrophic disorders of the cartilage of the intervertebral discs are observed) are the most common causes of lumbar disc herniation.

For an intervertebral hernia of the lumbar segment, the following symptoms are characteristic:

• numbness, burning and tingling along the sciatic nerve ( back of the leg);
• weakness of the muscles that make up the back of the thigh, lower leg, and foot;
• violation of pain and tactile sensitivity along the affected sciatic nerve;
• the appearance of violations in the act of defecation and urination.

What causes numbness in hands and feet?

The causes of numbness in the hands and feet are as follows:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency in the body can lead to some types of anemia ( anemia). In addition, this vitamin deficiency leads to damage to the nerve cells that make up the peripheral nervous system, which is manifested by numbness of the extremities ( one or several) and impaired coordination of movements. Vitamin B12 deficiency often occurs against the background of damage to the gastric mucosa. The fact is that the parietal cells of the stomach ( part of the main glands of the stomach) secrete the Castle factor, which converts the inactive form of vitamin B12 into the active form. Only the active form of this vitamin can be absorbed into the bloodstream from the intestines. Decreased production of Castle factor leads to vitamin B12 deficiency. It is worth noting that this pathological condition can occur in malnourished people, as well as vegetarians.
• Stroke- acute violation of cerebral circulation, resulting from a spasm of one of the vessels of the brain ( ischemic stroke) or due to rupture of the vessel and hemorrhage in the brain ( hemorrhagic stroke). The symptoms of a stroke may vary depending on the area of ​​the brain affected by the circulatory disorder. This pathology can be manifested by numbness in one or several limbs at once, paralysis, impaired consciousness ( fainting, stupor, coma). Severe headache, nausea, and confusion often occur.
• Polyneuropathy is a pathological condition characterized by multiple lesions of the peripheral nervous system. This disease can occur due to poisoning with poisons and toxic substances, with some infectious and allergic processes, or against the background of diabetes. In addition to tingling, numbness and crawling sensations felt in the limbs, there is muscle weakness, a violation of all types of sensitivity. Sometimes the disease leads to the development of paralysis. It should be noted that at the beginning of this pathology, the hands and feet are affected, and then the process spreads to the proximal parts of the limbs ( the pathological process has an upward direction).
• vibration sickness characterized by damage to the arteries of the limb as a result of prolonged exposure to the body of industrial vibration. Vibration disease causes numbness and pain in the arms and/or legs, as well as a decrease in pain and vibration sensitivity. The progression of the disease leads to the fact that pain in the limbs becomes permanent, and degenerative changes occur in the joints of the feet and hands. In addition, there may be violations of tonic function ( alternation of spasm and relaxation of the vascular wall) not only peripheral vessels, but also the vessels of the heart and brain.
• Raynaud's disease just like vibration disease, it is manifested by spasm of the arteries of the feet and hands. The main symptom of Raynaud's disease is numbness and burning in the fingers and toes. In advanced cases, tissue ischemia is observed ( reduced blood supply), which often leads to cell death. Ultimately, soft tissue suppuration and skin ulceration occur.

Why does numbness occur in the leg and lower back?

• Osteochondrosis It is manifested by damage to the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs, as a result of which the distance between the vertebrae gradually decreases. With the progression of this pathology, a situation arises in which adjacent vertebrae begin to compress the spinal roots that extend from the spinal cord and form peripheral nerves. Osteochondrosis of the lumbar leads to compression of a rather large sciatic nerve, which causes inflammation and is manifested by pain and numbness in the lower back and leg.
• Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar can also cause compression of the sciatic nerve. Damage to the peripheral part of the intervertebral disc, followed by protrusion of the nucleus pulposus ( central part of the disc) at the level of the last two lumbar vertebrae very often causes compression of the sciatic nerve.
• osteophytes are pathological growths of bone tissue. Large osteophytes of the lumbar region can significantly compress the spinal roots that are part of the sciatic nerve, thereby causing severe pain.

Why do feet go numb?

The following causes of foot numbness are distinguished:

• Thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities leads to a complete or partial disruption of the outflow of venous blood from the tissues. In the event that thrombi lead to occlusion ( blockage) veins at the level of the lower third of the lower leg, then the foot swells, numbness, pain occurs, and the skin acquires a reddish-blue hue due to overflow of the superficial skin vessels with venous blood.
• Atherosclerosis characterized by partial or complete blockage of the arteries by atherosclerotic plaques. The defeat of atherosclerosis of the small arteries of the feet is accompanied by the appearance of a feeling of numbness, burning and tingling in this segment. There is also a feeling of heaviness and mild to moderate pain.
• diabetic foot is one of the complications of diabetes. This syndrome is manifested by damage to the nerves and blood vessels, soft tissues, joints, bones and skin. It should be noted that in advanced cases against the background of this pathology, suppuration and tissue death are often observed ( phlegmon, abscess, gangrene).
• Raynaud's disease manifested by persistent spasm of the small arteries of the feet and hands. With this pathology, tissue hypoperfusion is observed ( reduced blood supply), which is manifested by blanching of the skin, a decrease in all types of skin sensitivity and the appearance of numbness ( violation of the conduction of sensory nerves).
• Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to degenerative processes at the level of the peripheral nervous system. First of all, the terminal branches of the nerves, which are located in the feet and hands, suffer. In addition to numbness, there is weakness in the muscles of the feet up to atrophy.
• vibration sickness- professional pathology, which is diagnosed in persons who have prolonged contact with industrial vibration. Under the influence of vibration, the terminal arteries of the feet and hands gradually narrow ( vasospasm), which leads to a decrease in the blood supply to the tissues. With vibration disease, the skin of the feet becomes cold to the touch and pale, paresthesias occur ( numbness, tingling, or burning of the skin), decreased pain, tactile and temperature sensitivity.

Numbness most often occurs due to a long stay in one position. The most popular example is when a person crosses his legs and stays in this position for a long time. As a result of this, a nerve is pinched and blood flow is disturbed, and, accordingly, a tingling sensation is felt and the foot or other area becomes numb. In some cases, for this to pass, it is enough to massage the affected area and everything will return to its original state.

If the numbness of the foot does not stop after the massage, then this may be a symptom of a certain disease. Such pathologies and conditions can be attributed to.

1. Osteochondrosis - this disease is considered the most common among the causes of numbness. It can be found in 70% of the population. During the rapid progression of the disease, the nerve endings are affected, and as a result, the foot becomes numb.
2. Intervertebral hernia - this condition occurs due to rupture of the fibrous ring, which in turn leads to a shift in the intervertebral discs. And as a result, the patient feels pain in the region of the spine, which radiate to the limbs, and then numbness of the foot develops.
3. Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.
4. Neuropathy is the defeat of nerve endings with their subsequent death and loss of functional abilities.
5. Raynaud's syndrome is a severe circulatory disorder in the body in certain areas, including the foot.

Less common reasons include:

• diabetes;
• pathologies of the cardiovascular system, including myocardial infarction;
• lack of B vitamins in the body;
• mechanical impact on the foot;
• pathological conditions of the vessels of the lower extremities, such as thrombosis, varicose veins, loss of vascular elasticity;
• benign and malignant formations;
• Morton's neuroma, which affects the nerve endings in the foot.

Complications

If nothing is done or the recommendations of the attending physician are followed, then this can lead to irreversible consequences, and the transition of the disease to a chronic state. Numbness of the foot during pregnancy, a lack of vitamins and a long stay in an uncomfortable position are not taken into account, as they are easily corrected and are not associated with pathologies.

With constantly recurring episodes of numbness, you should contact a specialist as soon as possible. In case of untimely treatment, it is possible to spread a feeling of numbness to the entire limb, a feeling of heaviness and tingling, and a subsequent decrease in the motor function of the entire limb, which leads to a deterioration in the quality of life and difficulties in movement.

Due to the inability to stand on the foot, there is an incorrect distribution of weight, as a result, the phalanges of the fingers suffer, the load on the spine increases and pain increases. This is often followed by depression, nervousness and sleep disturbance due to the inability to lead a normal life, especially in the younger generation.

Methods for the treatment of numbness of the foot of the right leg

Initially, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis of the body to determine the cause of numbness. Modern medicine offers many methods that allow you to as soon as possible identify pathology. Depending on the identified disease, treatment can last from several weeks to several months. And the sooner the cause is identified, the easier it is to choose a treatment regimen and use conservative methods of treatment, without surgical intervention.

In most cases, treatment is carried out in a hospital. Treatment begins with the actual determination of the cause of numbness, for this it is necessary to consult several specialists: a vertebrologist, a neurologist and an orthopedic traumatologist.

After they are prescribed to pass the following tests and undergo examinations, namely:

• complete blood count, biochemical if necessary;
• X-ray of the foot and ultrasound examination of the spine;
• Vascular ultrasound.

After all the procedures passed, the doctors prescribe treatment, namely kinesiotherapy and physiotherapy together with medications. Laser therapy is also gaining popularity.

Treatment has a favorable prognosis if it is not associated with the presence of malignant neoplasms. If a complete cure is not possible, then specialists try to stabilize the patient as much as possible and improve his quality of life.

Folk methods of treatment

Before using alternative methods of treatment, you should first consult with your doctor. Here are some popular recipes:

I prescription. A pinch of dry crushed sweet clover grass is poured with a glass of boiling water, and allowed to stand for several hours, and preferably a day. The resulting infusion is taken orally for 2 days. 2-3 glasses are allowed per day.

2nd recipe. Contrasting foot baths. The numb areas are alternately lowered either into hot or cold water. After that, an ointment with a warming effect (Espol, Finalgon) is applied to the foot, wrapped in warm material and left for several hours.

3rd recipe. Gymnastics for the toes. The patient extends the lower limbs in front of him and alternately flexes and extends his fingers, up to eighty times in total. This procedure helps to quickly get rid of numbness, if it is not associated with an illness.

Preventive actions

There is a small set of rules and procedures that will help get rid of numbness and prevent the further development of pathological conditions. These should include:

• abandoning a passive lifestyle in favor of an active one;
• exclusion from the diet of alcoholic beverages and smoking cessation;
• timely medical examination;
• walks in the fresh air, airing the premises;
• for colds and viral diseases, treatment should begin at the first symptoms;
• women should refrain from wearing shoes with heels to eliminate additional stress on the spine;
• moderate physical activity on the body;
• reducing the load on the spine during housework and work duties;
• keep your feet warm and prevent hypothermia;
• adhere to a complete and balanced diet, to replenish the body with useful substances.

A long stay of a person in one position sometimes causes such an unpleasant sensation as numbness of a limb. Just remember what happens when you sit in a cross-legged position for a long time without changing legs or bending one leg under you. The leg simply becomes numb, it becomes like cotton wool with a noticeable or slight tingling. It is very difficult to even stand on it. This is due to a completely understandable reason - pinched nerves and impaired blood circulation. It is enough to actively stretch the muscle, and everything returns to normal. But what if the loss of sensation in the limbs, for example, numbness of the right leg, occurs for no apparent reason?

ICD-10 code

R94.1 Abnormalities found during functional examinations of the peripheral nervous system and individual sense organs

Causes of numbness in the right leg

We have already discussed one of the reasons. This is an uncomfortable position of the right leg while sitting. Leg numbness can also occur in a standing position if the right leg is used as a support for a long time. Sometimes men like to crouch to lean with their hand on the right leg bent at an angle of 90 ° C in the knee area. This can also cause a loss of sensation in that leg for a while. Many are already accustomed to these causes of numbness of the limbs.

But the sensitivity of the leg can also be affected by reasons of a different plan, associated with the development of certain diseases, the presence or manifestations of which you did not even suspect. Numbness of the right leg can be one of the symptoms of these diseases, therefore, in any case, a complete or partial examination of the body is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.

Diseases accompanied by loss of sensation in the right leg include:

• osteochondrosis of the lumbar, accompanied by a neurological syndrome with limb numbness and back pain,
• various manifestations of intervertebral hernia, starting with borderline conditions,
• sciatic nerve neuralgiacaused by mechanical damage or inflammation in this area,
• diabetes mellitus (one of the manifestations of the disease is polyneuropathy, which manifests itself in a change in the sensitivity of the lower extremities, the appearance of pain and weakness of the legs),
• alcoholism (development of polyneuropathy),
• tunnel syndrome, associated mainly with various diseases of the spine,
• violation of the integrity and elasticity of blood vessels, such as varicose veins, thrombosis, etc.
• severe stages of rheumatoid arthritis,
• heel spur, characterized by numbness of the foot of the right or left foot,
• Raynaud's disease, which manifests itself in the form of a sharp contraction of the walls of small arteries, as a result of which blood circulation is disturbed and limb numbness occurs,
• acute stage of stroke at the age of 45,
• various neoplasms in the central nervous system and on the periphery,
• Morton's neuroma, affecting the nerve of the foot,
• violation of cerebral circulation and blood circulation.

Numbness of the extremities can be one of the manifestations of multiple sclerosis that affects the younger segments of the population, as well as a consequence of various injuries of the spine and limbs or frostbite.

Violation of the sensitivity of the lower extremities can also be observed in pregnant women, especially for long periods, due to the pressure of the fetus on the nerve endings and the increased load on the spine. The cause of numbness can be even the usual long-term lack of the necessary vitamins and minerals in the body, as well as a state of intense fear.

Pathogenesis

Damage or strong mechanical impact on the vessels or nerves located in a certain area of ​​the body can cause numbness in the right leg. At the same time, patients complain of a decrease in the sensitivity of the limb, a feeling of heaviness in it, limited functioning (it is difficult to bend or raise the leg, it is almost impossible to stand on it, it hardly takes a certain position). At first, these symptoms occur occasionally, but with the development of the disease that caused the numbness of the limb, these symptoms appear more often and their effect becomes longer.

In severe and acute forms of certain diseases, loss of sensation in the right lower limb can occur throughout the entire period of wakefulness, aggravated by active movement or prolonged adoption of a static state. In some cases, leg numbness can be accompanied by acute pain, both in the limb itself and in the lumbar region or hip joints. The pain usually lasts for a few minutes and then subsides.

If the numbness of the right leg is caused by temporary compression of the nerve endings when sitting or standing and does not have deeper causes associated with the presence of certain diseases, it does not require special treatment and disappears by itself within 2-5 minutes, when the limb assumes a comfortable position and not under pressure.

If the loss of sensitivity is associated with the presence of concomitant diseases, then the treatment of this condition may take a long period, since it comes down to eradicating the cause of numbness of the limb, i.e. treatment of a disease that caused damage to the nerves or blood vessels.

The development and spread of a condition with loss of sensation in the limbs is associated with an increase in the number of patients with diseases that cause numbness of the arms and legs, as well as with the “rejuvenation” of certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, etc., occurring at a younger, and even young age. .

Symptoms of numbness in the right leg

The very process of losing sensation in the leg begins with unusual sensations, as if the limb is being squeezed or squeezed. There is an imaginary feeling that the skin is strongly stretched, and the leg increases in size, swells.

At first, these sensations seem insignificant, then they intensify. Pronounced neurological reactions appear: a slight tingling, which becomes more noticeable with time, “goosebumps” begin to run along the skin, a slight itching (tickling) occurs, especially in the foot area.

A person cannot, as usual, easily control a limb, which suddenly "gets heavier" and becomes "cotton". The mobility of the joints is not disturbed, but for a while the ability to control it is lost. It is difficult to bend and rearrange the leg.

The skin does not respond well to touch. At first she does not feel anything, and then there are unpleasant sensations of vibration inside the muscles. Numbness of the right leg, however, as well as the left, may be accompanied by cramps and pain, especially at night.

If the numbness is caused by intense fear, shock, or stress, it may be accompanied by frequent shortness of breath, as well as cramps in the calf muscles.

What does numbness in various parts of the right leg indicate?

Very rarely there are situations when the entire leg as a whole goes numb. Usually numbness covers some part of the leg: foot, thigh, lower leg, fingers. It is the localization of the symptoms of numbness that may indicate the possible cause of this unpleasant condition.

Numbness of the toes of the right foot (big, 2nd and 3rd fingers) may indicate the development of a lumbar hernia. The 5th nerve root of the spine, located in the lumbar region, is responsible for providing the fingers with nerves (innervation) and their functioning, which means that it is in this area that an intervertebral hernia may occur. Sensations can spread to the first 3 toes and the outer part of the lower leg.

Numbness of the little toe of the right foot may also indicate the appearance of an intervertebral hernia, but in a different place. For the innervation of the little finger and some part of the 4th toe, the 1st nerve root of the sacrum is responsible, which means that the hernia is located within the 1st sacral and 5th lumbar disc of the spine. At the same time, numbness is felt throughout the little finger and can be given to the heel.

If the numbness of the right leg in the area of ​​​​the fingers is accompanied by swelling, redness, a significant decrease in mobility - this may indicate the presence of diseases such as sciatica, spinal osteochondrosis, spondylitis, spondylosis, heel spurs, etc. This may be a manifestation of Raynaud's disease, arthritis or indicate thermal tissue damage (burns, frostbite).

Numbness in the foot of the right foot most often indicates a heel spur. But in the same way, osteochondrosis of the spine, and intervertebral hernia, rheumatoid arthritis, polyarthritis, spondylosis (vertebral deformity), inflammation of the sciatic nerve, neuropathy of the tibial nerves can manifest themselves. In this case, the symptoms become more pronounced with active movements. In the form of tingling and numbness, the legs can also occur at night. Walking on heels becomes impossible due to pain.

Numbness of the lower leg of the right leg is most often observed outside the lower leg itself. Patients complain of difficulty with bending forward, putting on shoes, and raising a straight leg. Violation of sensitivity in this area is highly likely to indicate various lesions of the spinal discs. Numbness in the calf of the right leg, especially if it is accompanied by pain, cramps and muscle weakness, may be manifestations of various tunnel syndromes that appear due to compression of the peripheral nerves in the canals.

Numbness of the thigh of the right leg can be caused by both vascular diseases and lesions of the vertebral discs. The thigh of the leg is the area from the knee to the hip joint, delimited by the inguinal line. A lot of blood vessels, lymph nodes and nerve fibers pass here, which means that numbness of the thigh can cause disorders and inflammatory processes in them.

Loss of sensation on the outside of the thigh in the upper part may indicate tunnel syndromes, a striking example of which is Bernhardt-Roth disease, intervertebral hernia in the region of 1-4 discs, and the presence of tumors in the region of nerve endings.

If the thigh becomes numb inside at the bottom, closer to the knee, this may indicate a violation of the femoral nerve in insufficiently wide canals and cause acute throbbing pain in a sitting position.

Complications and consequences

It's no secret that any disease is most easily treated and corrected at the initial stage, and neglected forms, if they do not develop into more serious conditions, then become chronic. If we do not take into account the temporary loss of sensitivity of the lower extremities due to an uncomfortable posture, lack of vitamins or pregnancy, this condition is evidence of serious disorders in the body, which means that it must be treated with all responsibility.

If the often recurring numbness of the right leg is not given due importance, you can lose time and not diagnose a dangerous disease in time. And the consequences will already depend on the course and degree of neglect of the disease, the symptom of which was the loss of sensitivity in the leg.

Feelings may change over time. If you do not see a doctor in time, you can successfully wait for the complications of the situation. At first, numbness of the legs manifests itself only as a feeling of heaviness, "wadding" and tingling, in the future it can cause difficulties in movement, a decrease in the motor activity of the limbs, a serious circulatory disorder, up to partial gangrene.

In addition, pain is often added to unpleasant sensations, which significantly reduces the quality of life. For example, the patient cannot normally stand on the heel or rise on the toes, the pain passes to the lower back and there are difficulties with bending forward, the pain may interfere with normal walking or sitting, does not allow raising a straight leg, night sleep is disturbed, etc. Such complications can in turn lead to anxiety, nervousness and depression, especially at a young active age.

Diagnosis of numbness of the right leg

In order to avoid unpleasant and even dangerous consequences, it is necessary to start treatment of the existing cause of loss of sensation in the right leg in time. But for effective and correct treatment, an accurate diagnosis is necessary. You need to understand that numbness of the right leg is not a diagnosis, but just a symptom of a possibly more serious pathology. This is exactly what needs to be revealed.

It is not possible to make an accurate diagnosis based on the patient's complaints alone. Some aspects may indicate the most likely causes of leg numbness, and only a specialized (or general) examination of the body can clarify the presence or absence of a particular pathology.

An important step in the diagnosis is instrumental diagnostics. The most popular types of examinations prescribed by a doctor (therapist, rheumatologist, vascular surgeon, orthopedist, etc.) are MRI (tomography), ultrasound (ultrasound of the spine) and x-rays of the spine.

Sometimes, if a vascular pathology is suspected, specific methods are added to these studies: EEG (echoencephalography), ultrasound (head and neck Doppler), ultrasound of the heart, cardiogram, X-ray of the foot, etc.

If the presence of diabetes mellitus and other pathologies is suspected internal organs, causing numbness of the arms and legs, prescribe laboratory blood and urine tests, spirography, liver tests, etc. Based on laboratory parameters and instrumental examination data, a more accurate differential diagnosis is carried out, taking into account the patient's complaints and the collected anamnesis.

Right leg numbness treatment

Treatment of any pathology begins only after establishing the correct diagnosis. Numbness of the right leg is just one of the symptoms of many diseases, which must be treated in conjunction with the disease itself that caused this condition.

The medicines prescribed by a specialist doctor will depend on the disease that caused the numbness and pain in the legs. Since numbness of the extremities is most often associated with disorders in the spine and rheumatic diseases, anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs (NSAIDs) are prescribed in the form of injections or tablets to relieve this symptom, which relieve inflammation in the affected area, have an antipyretic and analgesic effect.

"Diclofenac"- the most popular among the non-steroidal group, used for various lesions of the spine. The recommended daily dose is 50-150 mg (2 to 6 tablets per day). The drug should be divided into 2-3 times. The tablets should be taken whole with a small amount of liquid during or immediately after meals.

There are certain contraindications to taking Diclofenac:

• erosion, ulcers and bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract,
• hemophilia, hematopoietic disorders,
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, including NVPS (for example, aspirin asthma),
• pregnancy and lactation,
• age up to 6 years.

Taking the drug can cause the following side effects: various disorders in the gastrointestinal tract, up to bleeding, pain in the head and dizziness, tinnitus, rash and itching of the skin, urinary retention. Very rarely (less than 1%): malfunctions of the pancreas and liver, sleep and rest disorders, convulsions, dermatitis, problems with the kidneys and the genitourinary system, incl. acute renal failure, as well as certain disorders in the hematopoietic, respiratory, immune and cardiovascular systems.

With caution, Diclofenac should be taken in patients with renal and hepatic insufficiency. Treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a physician with the necessary control laboratory tests. The drug adversely affects attention and reaction speed.

Analogues of Diclofenac with the same active ingredient are Voltaren, Naklofen SR, Diclofenac retard.

"Meloxicam"- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Depending on the type of disease and severity, one-time take from 1 to 2 tablets per day. Eating does not affect the effectiveness of the drug.

Contraindications for use are:

• pregnancy and lactation,
• age under 15 years old,
• erosion and ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract,
• various bleeding,
• heart failure in the stage of decompensation,
• serious progressive diseases of the liver and kidneys,
• a history of allergic reaction to aspirin.

Patients with ischemia, diabetes mellitus and other diseases of the cardiovascular and immune systems, the elderly, as well as patients with an addiction to alcohol and smoking, should be treated with caution when taking the drug. "Meloxicam" also has a negative effect on concentration, causing drowsiness.

Side effects: violations of the normal activity of the gastrointestinal tract, anemia, skin rashes, dizziness and pain in the head, swelling. Sometimes there are bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, changes in the composition of the blood, tinnitus, increased pressure and heart rate, etc. Other health and well-being disorders are extremely rare.

For external use, doctors may prescribe Ibuprofen in the form of a gel. The dosage of this drug depends on the size of the affected area. Usually, a strip of gel from 4 to 10 cm is applied to the skin and rubbed with light, smooth movements. The course of treatment is 14-21 days.

The drug is prohibited for use in the following cases:

• hypersensitivity to NVPS drugs, in particular to aspirin,
• open skin lesions: various wounds, cuts, abrasions, eczema, etc.,
• last months of pregnancy
• age under 6 years old.

With intolerance to the drug, spasms in the bronchi may occur, other side effects (in the form of allergic reactions) are very rare. Caution when using "Ibuprofen" should be observed by patients with severe liver or kidney disease.

Very often, for the treatment of diseases that cause numbness of the right or left leg, prescribe muscle relaxants that inhibit nerve impulses and have an analgesic effect. The most popular of these is the drug "Mydocalm". The initial dose of the drug is 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, gradually increasing the dose to 3 tablets 2-3 times a day. The dosage for children is calculated based on the weight of the patient - from 2 to 5 mg per 1 kg of weight.

Contraindications for use are:

• age under 3 years old,
• myasthenia gravis (chronic fatigue),
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Side effects: headaches, muscle weakness, fatigue, lowering blood pressure, nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting, discomfort in the stomach and intestines, various allergic reactions are possible.

If necessary, for patients with numbness of the right leg or other limbs, the attending physician may prescribe drugs from the group of corticosteroids("Prednisolone", "Methylprednisolone"), which have a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

In parallel with specific treatment, the body is saturated vitamins, for which vitamin-mineral complexes are prescribed with a predominance of B vitamins. Particular attention is paid to the case when numbness of the right leg causes a long-term lack of vitamins in the patient's body.

Not a fundamental, but no less important role in the treatment of the causes of numbness of the extremities is played by physiotherapy. In combination with drug therapy, physiotherapy can significantly improve the condition and well-being of the patient.

The composition of physiotherapy for numbness of the right leg includes: phototherapy with a therapeutic laser, ultrasound, electro- and phonophoresis, anesthesia with the help of the Amplipulse apparatus, etc.

In addition, patients are shown physiotherapy exercises, moderate physical activity against the background of healthy lifestyle life with a balanced diet. If there are no contraindications, then swimming, running and skiing give a good effect.

Alternative treatment of numbness of the right leg

Traditional medicine, as always, does not stand aside from the problem of numbness of the limbs. Her recipes allow, if not to cure, then to significantly alleviate the condition of the patient with numbness of the right leg. In the bins of folk healers there are means for both ingestion and external use.

Tincture of garlic. Grind a few heads of garlic and fill it with a third of a half-liter jar. Top up the dishes to the top with 36-40% alcohol (you can take high-quality vodka, moonshine) and set to infuse for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally. Take the product inside 5 drops with a small amount of water. It is recommended to do this 3 times a day.

Rubbing to increase blood circulation. We take 3-4 red hot peppers and a couple of pickles, cut into small pieces (or pass through a meat grinder) and pour the mixture into ½ liter of vodka. We insist the composition for a week in a dark place.

Black pepper tincture for massage. Pour 100 g of ground pepper into 1 liter of vegetable oil and put on a very low heat. We warm up the composition for half an hour.

Lilac tincture for compresses. Lilac flowers (1 cup) pour ½ liter of vodka or moonshine. We insist within a week.

Honey wrap. Apply a thin layer of honey on numb areas and wrap with a cotton cloth. You need to do this at night. Usually 3-4 wraps are enough.

Herbal medicine occupies an honorable place in folk medicine. Helping patients with numbness in the right leg is no exception.

• Recipe 1. We take rosemary herb and apple cider vinegar in a ratio of 1 to 3. We infuse the composition for a week. Gently rub the numb limbs with tincture at least 3 times a day.
• Recipe 2. Pour 100 g of herb initials with ½ l of 40% alcohol and leave for 10 days in a place protected from the sun, sometimes slightly shaking the composition. Strained tincture can be used both for grinding and for oral administration. Inside, the remedy is taken before meals, 1 teaspoon (3 times a day).
• Recipe 3. Take a pinch of sweet clover herb and brew in a glass of boiling water. Let's insist. Take in the form of tea 3 times a day, 1 glass. Treatment continues for 2 days.
• Recipe 4. Herbal baths. Pour 400 g of a mixture of chamomile and mint with hot water in the amount of 6 liters and leave for at least 3 hours. Add a decoction to the bath in the amount of 1 liter. The course of treatment is from 18 to 20 baths.

Instead of chamomile and mint, you can use sage herb or a mixture of herbs: nettle, oregano, burdock. You can also practice contrast baths with hot and cold water, which also has a positive effect on the patient's condition.

Homeopathy in the fight against numbness of the right leg

Despite all the many recipes of traditional medicine, by themselves they will not be able to cure the disease. The desired effect is achieved only in the case of the complex use of folk methods, physiotherapy and drug treatment. If you are not an adherent of synthetic dosage forms, but prefer natural remedies, then homeopathic remedies are just what the “doctor prescribed” for you.

Aconite napellus (wrestler blue or aconite)- a homeopathic remedy of wide application. It acts on the central nervous system and has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, relieving fever and pain.

Dosage and method of application. Like most homeopathic remedies, "Aconite" is available in the form of granules, which are taken 8 pieces at a time, putting under the tongue. In the first three days, the drug is supposed to be taken five times a day, in the next 10-14 days the granules are taken 3 times a day, and only then they switch to a two-time regimen. The drug should be taken half an hour before a meal or an hour after a meal.

The duration of treatment with Aconite granules is prescribed by the doctor. He can also offer to try the tincture of the same name. For diseases of the spine and joints, this tincture is applied externally 2 times a day for a month.

Precautionary measures. Since the blue wrestler is a very poisonous plant, treatment with a drug based on it should be carried out strictly according to the scheme prescribed by the doctor. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms. Side effects of the drug are usually associated either with intolerance to the active substance, or with an overdose of the drug. Symptoms of overdose: nausea accompanied by vomiting, numbness of the face, feeling of cold or heat in the extremities, thirst, dryness of the mucous membranes of the mouth, muscle cramps, drop in blood pressure, blurred vision. Uncontrolled use of the drug can lead to death.

With numbness of the right leg, a homeopathic doctor may prescribe Secale cornutum (ergot) - a homeopathic remedy based on the mycelium of the fungus. Take it in low dilutions, the dosage will be indicated by the doctor himself. The drug is also quite poisonous.

Calcarea phosphorica (calcium phosphate) it is prescribed in the presence of rheumatic diseases, which are the cause of numbness and coldness in the limbs. Homeopaths prescribe the required dosage, but usually it is 3, 6 or 12-fold dilution.

Sometimes, when feeling cold in the limbs associated with diseases of the joints, doctors recommend a homeopathic remedy Calcium carbonicum (calcium carbonate) based on oyster shells. A homeopathic remedy is available in the form of granules, drops or powder, the effective and safe doses of which, as well as the duration of the course of treatment, will be indicated by the doctor when prescribing this drug. An overdose of the drug can cause metabolic disorders.

In case of violations of the peripheral circulation and the associated numbness of the right leg in homeopathy, Aesculus compositum is often prescribed in the form of an alcohol solution. A single dose for adult patients is 10 drops, for children - from 3 to 10 drops, depending on age. The drug should be taken three times a day for half an hour before meals diluted in a small amount of water (5 ml).

Contraindications to taking homeopathic remedies can be childhood, pregnancy and lactation, as well as hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

It is preferable to purchase any homeopathic remedies in specialized pharmacies, where it is possible to get advice from a homeopathic doctor, who will prescribe a course of treatment. This is very important, given that some homeopathic remedies contain poisonous substances that, in recommended doses, have a good therapeutic effect, and in case of an overdose, pose a danger to health and life in general.

In addition, when turning to homeopathy for help, one must be prepared for the fact that treatment with such remedies will be quite long, and one should not expect quick results. How not to stop halfway.

Surgical treatment for numbness of the right leg carried out only in connection with the treatment of concomitant diseases that caused this condition. This can be either a phlebectomy for varicose veins, or surgical removal of a tumor or intervertebral hernia.

Prevention

Preventive measures, aimed at preventing such an uncomfortable condition as numbness of the right leg, are primarily aimed at preventing the development of diseases that cause this condition of the body. Such measures include:

• Active, mobile lifestyle with the rejection of bad habits.
• Due attention to proper balanced nutrition, rich in vitamins and trace elements.
• The absence of unnecessary stress on the spine in everyday life and in the performance of professional duties.
• Timely and complete treatment of colds and viral diseases.
• Charging and physical exercises, both motor and static.

Numbness of the feet is a process of complete or partial loss of sensory, which is caused by compression of the neural trunks, neuroendings, vasal formations. Violation of sensory in the lower extremities (paresthesia) is caused by a disorder of blood circulation in the body, pathological processes in the musculoskeletal system, and malignant oncological pathologies. Sometimes it occurs accompanied by pain, tingling in any part of the foot.

Foot numbness is a sign that accompanies a huge list of pathologies. Mostly this condition manifests itself in people over 30 years old. Behind the banal numbness, a serious pathology is masked, and in case of untimely therapeutic measures, harm can be done to the body. Recurring conditions are a reason to see a doctor, this is an alarm signal so that the patient pays attention to it.

Ethioinformation

A pathological state is formed in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, the presence of thrombotic clots in a large vascular network, heel osteogrowths, diabetes mellitus and other pathological conditions. The doctor can diagnose the cause of the formation of paresthesia only after the collected anamnestic data and laboratory and instrumental results.

Pathological manifestations in the legs are formed mainly in able-bodied and young people, they indicate a danger to health. Accompanied by a feeling of tingling in the left or right lower limb, burning, partial or complete loss of sensory, painful syndrome.

• - a pathology that is characterized by damage to the neuroendings in the legs. It is rarely observed in an isolated form, mainly in the form of a syndrome of diabetes mellitus (diabetic neuropathy) or multiple sclerosis.
• . This cause occupies approximately 70% of all cases of leg numbness of various localization, depending on the area of ​​damage to the spinal column. Violation of sensory in the feet is possible in the case of the development of lumbar osteochondrosis. Here, neuro-endings are involved in the infringement, the normal work CNS, innervation of the lower extremities.
• - a pathology accompanied by the formation in the lumen of the vascular network of blood clots - atherosclerotic plaques, which are cholesterol (in combination with unsaturated fatty acids) accumulations. They are attached to the inner layer of the vascular walls and block the lumen of the vessel, which helps to reduce the volume of blood entering the tissues. Atherosclerotic lesions are characterized by increased fatigue and painful syndrome.
• Diabetes. It leads to a disorder of tissue nutrition and blood circulation in the limbs, up to gangrenous decay. Therefore, diabetic numbness of the foot requires an urgent start of therapeutic actions, since such a manifestation is the beginning of developing gangrene.
• Multiple. It is characterized by the transformation of nervous tissue into connective tissue. The feeling of numbness is the initial sign of pathology.
• Intervertebral hernia is a consequence of damage to the structure of the spinal disc and, as a result, damage to the spinal root. At an early stage, such a manifestation can be replaced by general weakness and fatigue, pain in the legs. Often, a dysfunction of the pelvic organs is detected (impaired urination and defecation, sexual disorders, etc.).
• - a pathological process in the musculoskeletal system, which is accompanied by deformation of the vertebral bone structures due to the growth of various growths on their surface. As a result, compression of the spinal tissue and neural roots occurs, leading to a disorder in the innervation of the feet. The clinical picture is pain in the back.
• Obliterating endarteritis. It is an obliteration (reduction of the vessel lumen) of an arterial vessel for various reasons, which leads to a decrease in blood flow to the tissues of the legs and the formation of tissue ischemia and, as a result, numbness of the feet.
• Disorder of blood supply to cerebral tissue. The causative factors in this case can be chronic alcoholism, vitamin deficiency, strokes. Under conditions of reduced supply of O2 to the brain tissue, a disorder occurs in the generation and transport of neurosignals. Ischemic stroke of the vertebral, inferior cerebellar artery is a common causative factor in the origin of numbness. The presence of severe paresthesia creates the possibility of timely diagnosis of stroke at the initial stages of pathology.
• Neoplasms. Tumor growth can cause not only numbness in the feet, but also severe cephalalgia, impaired coordination of movements.
• - spontaneous and paroxysmal circulatory disorders. It leads to disruption of the blood supply to the feet and hands, the skin of the latter becomes very cold, acquires a bluish tint.
• Avitaminosis is a deficiency of certain vitamins in the body. Mainly cyanocobolamin.

Medical tactics

If numbness develops after an uncomfortable position, it is enough to change the latter to a comfortable one and prevent this from happening in the future. In this case, rubbing the skin in the area of ​​numbness will have an effective effect, which contributes to the rapid restoration of hemoflow.

Do not neglect sports activities - lead an active lifestyle. It is forbidden to make sharp motor acts.

In the event of a sudden development of numbness, and even accompanied by a similar reaction in other parts of the body, you should immediately seek medical help, since this is an alarming signal of a developing cerebral stroke.

According to medical terminology, loss of sensation in the lower extremities is defined as hypoesthesia. It is this diagnosis that will be made to the patient when contacting a medical institution with a complaint of numbness of the right / left foot.

If we talk about the most common causes, as a result of which numbness of the lower extremities may begin, then this is a pinched nerve. As you know, the nutrition of both the upper and lower extremities is carried out by transmitting an impulse from the central nervous system through the nerve endings, as well as through the circulatory system (blood vessels). In the event that a pinched nerve endings occurred in one of the areas, then the person may not feel the lower extremities, in particular the feet. The same applies to circulatory disorders. Circulatory disorders are a complex pathological process that must be eliminated urgently, otherwise it threatens with tissue necrosis and gangrene.

Osteochondrosis as a cause of foot numbness

Osteochondrosis is a common cause of numbness of the lower extremities, which occurs today in 70% of the active population of the country. What is osteochondrosis? Under osteochondrosis understand dystrophic disorders in the cartilage of the joints. Osteochondrosis can begin to develop in a person in absolutely any joint - both on the upper limbs and on the lower ones. Predominantly pathological lesions of osteochondrosis extend to the intervertebral discs.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis are: persistent back pain, an unpleasant feeling of ache in the lower extremities, pain in the lower extremities, incl. in the foot increases during walking. In addition, the accompanying symptoms of osteochondrosis are: severe headaches, crawling sensation on the leg, noise in the head. If osteochondrosis progresses, then there is a rapid defeat of the nerve endings. This can explain the numbness of the foot of the left / lower limb.

Disc herniation and numbness of the right leg

There are really quite a number of true causes of numbness in the legs, and it is very difficult to find among them one that can explain your condition. For example, an intervertebral hernia that occurs due to a pathological rupture of the fibrous ring leads to displacement of the discs in the spine. This condition leads to constant dizziness, pain in the spine, which radiates to the lower extremities, and as a result, a person feels numbness in both the left and right foot.

It is categorically not recommended to endure pain during a herniated disc. If you delay this process, you will have to resort to serious surgical intervention.

If the patient goes to the surgeon at an early stage of the disease, then in this case he is offered to undergo a course of massage and acupuncture therapy as a treatment.

Video: Pain and numbness in the leg with a herniated disc. Pain and numbness in the leg with disc herniation

Numbness in the right foot may be due to such "usual" causes. For example, you could sit out your leg or lie down at night.

With that said, if you feel numbness in your left/right foot, try doing a little self-massage. Relax the limb, do not strain and wait 10 minutes - if the sensitivity does not recover, then you will need to see a doctor.

What can be hidden behind the numbness of the legs?

Can lower limb numbness really be that serious? Doctors have been saying for several years that yes - this symptom can carry a certain amount of danger (especially if you do not see a doctor in time).

Among the causes of numbness of the lower extremities are the following:

• Deficiency of vitamins of group B - if you find this cause in time and consult a doctor, then by filling in the deficiency of vitamins, you can quickly “get back on track”.
• Consequences of a stroke;
• Cardiovascular diseases, in particular, heart attack;
• Violation of blood supply in a certain area of ​​​​the lower extremities;
• Diabetes;
• Chronic pinched nerve endings;
• Violation of bone tissue, joint deformity;
• Mechanical damage to the leg - maybe shortly before the numbness of the lower extremities, you were diagnosed with a broken leg, fingers, or a sprain.

Even disorders of the central nervous system can lead to the fact that both the lower limbs and the upper limbs become numb in a person. With such pathological disorders, a characteristic symptom is a feeling of anxiety, panic, anxiety, a person is constantly in a state of fear.

Multiple sclerosis and neuropathy

Among the reasons that can explain the numbness of the lower extremities, both left / right, one can also distinguish: multiple sclerosis - damage to the tissues of the spinal cord or brain. In simple terms, this pathology can be explained as follows - a person begins to gradually die off (stiffen) the brain tissue, which leads to the occurrence of multiple sclerosis.

Video: Numb Right Foot

Neuropathy is a pathological phenomenon in which the defeat of nerve endings begins, their death and loss of natural functions.

Reine's syndrome is a violation of blood circulation in the body, which is quite serious and severe in the course of the body. In particular, the patient's lower limbs begin to swell rapidly, if there are wounds and injuries on the body, they do not heal for a long period of time.

Video: Morton's neuroma. Live healthy! Why do my legs hurt?

When should you worry about numbness of the limbs?

At what stage should you contact a medical institution if you have numbness of the limbs? The following are the symptoms, in the event of which it is necessary to sign up for a consultation with a neurologist without fail.

So, if you feel severe unbearable sharp pain in your feet - you have constant breakdowns, feelings of anxiety appear - you cannot step on your lower limbs - the skin on your legs begins to turn blue and change its color - you have a severe headache - a feeling of weakness appears - All these symptoms indicate that you need to urgently consult a doctor.

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