The asleep foot
July 31, 2013 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ive Dr. Schaaf
Dear Sir or Madam, I have the following problem (44 years old, male, athletic and otherwise healthy). Twelve days ago, I sat with my left leg bent for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. When I stood up again, my left foot was asleep and numb. I thought it would go away, but until today the following symptoms remain unchanged: I am unable to lift the entire foot towards the knee, as well as the toes (manually it is possible). A slight tingling sensation is felt when touching the top of the foot. There is a numb feeling in the entire foot, limited to the area of the foot. However, the toes and foot can move downwards without any issues. Walking is possible but not as enjoyable due to the lack of motor skills. In the past few days, I have tried to "revive" the area through exercises, but to no avail. What is your opinion? Could this be just a prolonged temporary condition? What kind of doctor should I see in case it is a more serious problem? As I am abroad until August 5th, I hope it is not urgent. Thank you in advance for your response, and I remain with kind regards.
Greetings!
Apparently, the nerve responsible for sensitivity and motor function in the affected area has been persistently "irritated". Normally, this is not possible due to incorrect sitting. You are probably familiar with this sensation from your arm, for example, when you sleep on it. Once it is freed from its uncomfortable position, the nerve usually recovers, often accompanied by intense tingling. Short-term irritation is common, while long-term irritation is very rare.
It is possible that the nerve sustained a minor injury while in a bent position without being noticed. Another possibility could be a deeper change that was only noticeable in the bent position. It is also possible that the nerve damage already existed and the bent position was the final straw that caused the symptoms to worsen.
As for treatment, a neurologist or orthopedic specialist would be appropriate.
What you can try yourself:
You can take Vitamin B12, a nerve vitamin that supports nerve regeneration, as a supplement. The most promising approach would be to gently massage the nerve in the area where the irritation is triggered multiple times a day. You will find this spot at the upper edge of the sensitive area. When you massage it gently in circular motions, you will come across a point where you can either trigger or significantly worsen the symptoms. This is the point where the nerve is not doing well. The symptoms manifest further down. By gently and circularly massaging, the nerve can usually be released from its uncomfortable position. Use a little oil on your finger for this and consider icing before massaging.
To clarify: Such problems can arise from a severed or irritated (e.g. pinched or inflamed) nerve. Since a severing is unlikely, the nerve just needs to be "calmed down". In the context of self-treatment, you cannot go wrong if you follow the steps described above. Regardless, I would recommend seeing a doctor, especially since the symptoms have been persisting for a while.
Do you understand everything? Any more questions?
In any case, I wish you a speedy recovery.
Dr. Schaaf
