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Advancing Neuromusculoskeletal Care Through Whole-Person Expertise

Numbness in the feet could be more than just an annoyance—it disrupts your independence, safety, and quality of life. Led by globally recognized spine surgeon Dr. Michael Gerling and supported by our expert regenerative research team, we offer cutting-edge, minimally invasive, and biologic interventions that go far beyond masking symptoms. By holistically focusing on the spine, nerves, and surrounding structures, we identify the source of your numbness and build a personalized path toward lasting relief.

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What Is Foot Numbness?

Foot numbness is a reduction or loss of sensation in one or both feet. It may feel like:

  • Tingling or “pins and needles”
  • Burning or prickling sensations
  • A sense of coldness or “deadness”
  • Complete lack of awareness of foot position


While occasional numbness can result from temporary nerve compression—such as sitting cross-legged for too long—persistent or progressive symptoms often point to an underlying issue that requires medical evaluation.

The cause may be spinal nerve compression, often from:

  • Herniated discs
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Spondylolisthesis

Foot numbness may also result from peripheral nerve dysfunction from:

  • Diabetes or metabolic disorders
  • Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
  • Musculoskeletal imbalances affecting posture or gait

Benefits of Addressing Foot Numbness

  • Restores protective sensation, reducing fall and injury risk
  • Enhances mobility, balance, and walking confidence
  • Improves sleep quality and overall comfort
  • Reduces the risk of long-term nerve damage
  • May resolve underlying spinal or systemic issues
  • Reclaims independence and quality of life

When to Consult With a Professional

You may benefit from foot numbness treatment if you experience:

  • Persistent or progressive numbness in one or both feet
  • Numbness associated with back or leg pain
  • Weakness, cramping, or instability in your lower limbs
  • Balance issues or frequent stumbles
  • Sensory changes that affect your daily activities or safety

We encourage early evaluation, especially if symptoms worsen or are accompanied by pain, weakness, or bowel or bladder control changes.

Our Diagnostic Process

Comprehensive Medical History & Symptom Review

We start every evaluation by understanding your experience with foot numbness. Key assessments include:

  • When the numbness started and its progression
  • The sensation (tingling, burning, coldness, etc.)
  • Activities that worsen symptoms
  • Any related issues like pain, weakness, cramping, or instability
  • Your medical history, including past injuries, surgeries, and conditions

Physical and Neurologic Examination

A focused physical and neurologic exam helps assess how foot numbness affects your function. We evaluate:

  • Balance and coordination to identify instability or fall risk
  • Muscle strength in the legs and feet to detect weakness or atrophy
  • Gait patterns to observe your walking and weight-bearing
  • Reflexes to assess nerve integrity
  • Sensory and motor function through tests of touch, temperature, vibration, and muscle control

High-Resolution Imaging

We use advanced imaging techniques to identify structural issues affecting nerve function, including:

  • MRI for clear images of soft tissues, spinal discs, and nerve roots
  • CT scans for detailed views of spinal bones and joints
  • Evaluation for disc herniations that may compress nerves going to the feet
  • Assessment of spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
  • Identification of nerve root impingement, bone spurs, or deformities 

Electrodiagnostic Testing (EMG/NCS)

Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are essential for assessing nerve and muscle function. These tests help us: 

  • Measure the speed and strength of electrical signals in peripheral nerves
  • Identify abnormal responses indicating compression or damage
  • Differentiate between radiculopathy and peripheral neuropathy
  • Pinpoint nerve involvement locations
  • Assess the severity of nerve impairment to guide treatment decisions

Laboratory Testing (When Indicated)

When systemic conditions contribute to nerve dysfunction, we use targeted lab tests to identify causes, including:

  • Blood glucose and A1C tests for diabetes screening
  • Vitamin assessments, especially B12 and folate, vital for nerve health
  • Autoimmune panels to check for inflammatory disorders
  • Thyroid function tests to evaluate hormonal impacts on nerves
  • Metabolic and renal panels to assess broader systemic issues affecting nerve signaling
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Treatment, Recovery, and Results

Depending on the underlying cause of foot numbness, options may include:

  • Regenerative injections
  • Nerve decompression procedures
  • Targeted spine interventions

Many patients benefit from ultra-minimally invasive procedures performed on an outpatient basis with short recovery timelines:

  • Most patients experience progressive improvement in sensation, mobility, and comfort over weeks to months following treatment
  • Some therapies, especially regenerative approaches, stimulate gradual healing at the cellular level, while surgical decompression may provide more immediate relief

Regardless of your path, we monitor your progress closely and adjust care to ensure the best possible outcome with the least disruption to your life.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute?

Dr. Michael Gerling is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery. A board-certified spine surgeon since 2008, he has performed thousands of advanced procedures with an exceptionally low complication rate, setting a benchmark for safety and outcomes in the field.

Dr. Gerling is the former President of the Federation of Spine Associations (FOSA), Chairman of Education for the Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS), and a frequent contributor to national spine societies such as AAOS, NASS, and LSRS. He has authored over 190 peer-reviewed publications and more than 10 textbook chapters, shaping the future of spine care through both surgical mastery and research excellence.

Related Conditions We Treat

  • Sciatica
  • Lumbar spinal stenosis
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Chronic low back pain
  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Foot drop and motor weakness

Ready to Feel Your Best Again?

Foot numbness shouldn’t control your life, whether your symptoms are new or longstanding. Schedule your consultation at Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute today to learn more about how we can help you put your best foot forward.

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Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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