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What Causes Persistent Numbness On The Toes?

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Posted on Wed, 5 Oct 2016
Question: My second left toe has been numb for over 1 year. When I walk the whole left pad goes numb and burns. Yesterday I noticed that may left second toe nail is falling off. No injury or nail fungus. Is this due to circulation or lumbar spine problem? I am 51 years old. In good physical shape. No smoking or drinking.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Neurological problems more likely.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

In my opinion, lumbar spine conditions such herniated disc disease, or degerative changes ( bone spurs for example ) that are pinching a nerve, are responsible for your symptoms more than blood supply problems.

This because of your age ( there seems to be no predisposing factors to vascular disease ), the nature of the symptoms ( numbness is primary a neurological symptom ), the distribution of numbness.

Vascular problems manifest with other signs that are visible on the skin such swelling, cold foot, etc.

Nerve entrapment syndrome also may be a possible explanation.

It is necessary to get evaluated clinically and by imaging studies in order to get a correct answer to your concerns.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

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What Causes Persistent Numbness On The Toes?

Brief Answer: Neurological problems more likely. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. In my opinion, lumbar spine conditions such herniated disc disease, or degerative changes ( bone spurs for example ) that are pinching a nerve, are responsible for your symptoms more than blood supply problems. This because of your age ( there seems to be no predisposing factors to vascular disease ), the nature of the symptoms ( numbness is primary a neurological symptom ), the distribution of numbness. Vascular problems manifest with other signs that are visible on the skin such swelling, cold foot, etc. Nerve entrapment syndrome also may be a possible explanation. It is necessary to get evaluated clinically and by imaging studies in order to get a correct answer to your concerns. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further. Greetings.