Almost everyone has felt pins and needles after sitting in one position for too long. But numbness, tingling or burning in the hands and feet that keeps coming back can be a sign that the nerves are not working properly, a condition called peripheral neuropathy.
Neuropathy is common in people with diabetes, but it has many other causes, including vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid problems, alcohol and pinched nerves in the neck or back. Finding the cause early helps prevent further nerve damage, foot ulcers and falls.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral nerves carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When they are damaged, signals for touch, pain, temperature and movement are disturbed. Symptoms usually start in the toes and feet and may slowly spread to the hands.
1. Diabetes is the most common cause
High blood sugar over many years damages small nerves, especially in the feet. Good sugar control slows this down.
2. Vitamin deficiency and pinched nerves
Low vitamin B12, common in vegetarians and people on certain diabetes medicines, can cause numbness and weakness. A pinched nerve in the neck, wrist (carpal tunnel) or lower back causes tingling along one arm or leg.
Numbness that comes on suddenly, especially on one side of the body with weakness, slurred speech or facial drooping, may be a stroke. Call emergency immediately instead of waiting for an OPD visit.
Healyn Hospitals, Neurology
Our neuro physician takes a detailed history, examines sensation, reflexes and strength, and may order blood tests for sugar, B12 and thyroid, or nerve conduction studies. Treatment targets the cause and includes medicines for nerve pain, vitamin supplements, foot care advice and physiotherapy where needed.
When Should You See a Neurologist?
Book a consultation if tingling or numbness is persistent or affecting daily life, and especially if you notice:
- Burning pain in the feet that is worse at night
- Weakness, frequent tripping or dropping objects
- Wounds on the feet that you did not feel
- Symptoms spreading upwards over weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can neuropathy be cured?
Some causes, such as vitamin deficiency, can improve significantly with treatment. In diabetes, good control can slow progression and ease symptoms.
Why are my feet numb at night?
Nerve symptoms are often more noticeable at rest. Persistent night-time burning or numbness should be checked by a doctor.
How do I protect my feet if I have diabetes?
Check your feet daily, wear well-fitting footwear, keep skin moisturised and never walk barefoot.
About the Specialist
Dr. Anil Ramakrishna – Neuro Physician, Healyn Hospitals. OPD: Thursday, 11:00 AM.
To consult our Neurology team, call +91 63666 14481 or book an appointment online. For emergencies, call 080-27845285 (24/7).
