Once big toe numbness occurs during running, it is best to take a close look on the shoes before thinking about other conclusions. Tight shoes and lacings can compress the nerves and cause the loss of sensation in the toes, including the big toe. In case switching to a comfortable pair of shoes does not help with the big toe numbness, it is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor to check for any underlying health conditions.
Tight shoes
Ill-fitting or tight shoes can compress the nerves of the foot, resulting to big toe numbness. The shoes used must fit in a comfortable manner in all dimensions including the width, height and length. Make sure that the big toe is not brushing on the end of the shoe. During lacing of shoes, do not lace them too firmly since this can also cause compression of the nerves and result to numbness.
Pressure
While running, the nerves on the base of the feet are subjected to substantial pressure. The nerves under the balls of the feet are usually affected. Take note that this pressure can cause numbness or tingling in the big toe or other toes. A neuroma or swollen nerve can also cause the big toe to become numb. Ultrasonic imaging is one technique utilized in determining the existence of a neuroma.
Orthotics
Orthotic devices such as insoles can provide relief to big toe numbness. On the other hand, some supports positioned beneath the toes can increase pressure and worsen the numbness. When using an orthotic device specifically for runners, it should have enough room for the toes and must be rigid and conforms closely to the foot arch. It is best to opt for a total contact orthotic that conforms to the foot arch and relieves pressure from the ball of the foot.
Spinal issues
The numbness that occurs in the lower body might indicate a potential issue in the lower spine such as a . The degeneration of the disc and spine misalignment can cause big toe numbness. If the individual has nerve-root syndromes in the lower back, it can result to low back and leg pain accompanied by big toe numbness.
Other possible conditions
Overexertion while running can lead to compartment syndrome which is a serious condition that entails immediate medical care. The symptoms of this syndrome include leg pain, cramping and toe numbness due to the pressure placed in the muscles that cuts off proper circulation and damages the muscles and nerves. Take note that this condition can also cause big toe numbness. In addition, this condition is quite common in the calf but can also occur in the feet.
Raynaud’s disease is a rare condition that can also cause the big toe to turn numb. The disease occurs more often among women than in men. This condition involves limited circulation due to the constriction of the blood vessels. In most cases, the hands are affected as well as the feet. Stress and cold can worsen the symptoms.