Raynaud’s disease and spinal cord compression: dangerous causes of tingling in the legs
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One of the simplest explanations for tingling in the legs is lying on them for too long, which causes numbness.
However, in some cases, tingling can signal dangerous diseases.
The possible risks of such a symptom were listed in the Health publication.
“Tingling in the feet is a sensation or symptom that occurs when there is abnormal nerve activity in the body. Tingling can be felt in certain parts of the foot without affecting other parts, depending on the disease.” – explains podologist Nelya Lobkova.
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You should seek medical help in cases where tingling:
- does not disappear when moving;
- often repeated;
- lasts for a week or more.
What conditions can indicate tingling in the legs?
Compression of spinal nerve roots
Spinal nerve root compression is a restriction or irritation of the spinal nerve roots.
It can cause tingling in the legs.
One of the most common causes of this disease is the “wear and tear” of the joints, which causes arthritis.
Injuries that cause a herniated disc can also lead to compression.
Other symptoms of spinal nerve root compression:
- loss of reflexes;
- backache;
- numbness;
- muscle weakness
Diagnostics:
- computed tomography (CT);
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
- x-ray
Treatment of spinal nerve root compression
Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms.
Painkillers are usually used first – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, steroid injections can also be given.
Other treatment methods include:
- acupuncture;
- physical therapy;
- spine correction;
- joint stretching;
- surgical intervention – in severe cases.
Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that affects the feet and lower legs. However, in some cases, this disease can involve the hands and hands.
Peripheral nerves in the legs send sensory information to the central nervous system. The body can recognize it as a tingling sensation if something damages these nerves.
Peripheral neuropathy is very common in people with diabetes. High blood sugar can damage nerves, capillaries, or small blood vessels.
Other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy:
- burning;
- numbness;
- pain;
- problems with feeling changes in temperature or pain;
- weakness.
These symptoms can affect one or both sides of the body. Their course usually worsens at night.
Diagnostics:
- blood test;
- electromyography (EMG) – recording of the electrical activity of muscles;
- research of nerve conduction;
- skin biopsy.
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy
Treatment methods depend on the cause of peripheral neuropathy.
For people with diabetes, it means monitoring blood sugar levels.
Also, treatment methods include refraining from harmful habits that can narrow blood vessels – for example, smoking.
Exercise helps send blood, nutrients, and oxygen to different parts of the body.
At the same time, medical drugs (for pain relief) and surgical intervention (in difficult cases) are used.
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Raynaud’s disease
Raynaud’s disease causes reduced blood flow to the fingers, toes, and other parts of the body.
It occurs when blood vessels narrow when a person freezes or feels stressed.
Narrowed blood vessels prevent blood from reaching the surface of the skin. In this case, areas of the skin may appear blue or white.
Tingling occurs when blood vessels dilate and blood flow is restored.
Other symptoms of Raynaud’s disease that appear in the extremities:
- burning;
- numbness;
- redness;
- edema;
- pulsation.
Diagnostics:
- blood test;
- microscopy of the capillaries of the nail plates – examination of the base of the nails under a magnifying glass.
Treatment of Raynaud’s disease
At the beginning of the treatment, the affected areas are recommended to be soaked in Epsom salts and warmed.
Avoiding the cold helps prevent attacks of Raynaud’s disease.
There are no special drugs for the treatment of Raynaud’s disease, but the doctor can prescribe related drugs.
In severe cases, surgical intervention is involved. The operation is directed at the nerves through which the blood vessels narrow.
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Compression of the spinal cord
Any disease or injury that puts pressure on the spinal cord can cause it to become compressed.
It can also occur in people with narrow spinal canals or older than 40 years.
Tingling in the legs can occur when the signal transmission between the spinal cord and muscles is interrupted.
Other symptoms of spinal cord compression:
- coordination problems;
- loss of fine motor skills;
- numbness;
- pain and stiffness in the neck;
- muscle weakness
Diagnostics:
- physical examination;
- computed tomography (CT);
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
- x-ray
Treatment of spinal cord compression:
- avoiding heavy physical exertion;
- taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants;
- physical therapy;
- steroid injections;
- surgical intervention – in difficult cases.
Tarsal canal syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs due to compression of the tibial nerve. It is located in the ankle joint and is responsible for sensation and movement in the foot.
Tingling in the legs can occur precisely because of compression of the tibial nerve.
Other symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome:
- numbness;
- weakness;
- muscle damage
Diagnostics:
- physical examination;
- blood test;
- electromyography (EMG);
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
- research of nerve conduction;
- ultrasound;
- x-ray
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| Photo: Chinnapong/Depositphotos |
Treatment of tarsal tunnel syndrome:
- applying ice to the ankle joint;
- taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or other painkillers;
- use of kinesiology tape;
- wearing orthopedic shoes;
- physical therapy;
- use of creams and ointments;
- orthoses for the ankle joint;
- surgical intervention – in difficult cases.
We will remind you that we talked about seven non-obvious symptoms that should not be ignored.
Importantly! This material is based on the latest and current scientific research, is of an informational and reference nature only and cannot be the basis for establishing a medical diagnosis. To establish a diagnosis, be sure to consult a doctor!
Read also: “A chance to continue life, even without a stomach.” Stories of women living with a stoma
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