Foot Numbness & Tingling Michigan | Causes and Treatment

Related Conditions

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI. Last updated April 2026.

Foot Numbness & Tingling Michigan

Numbness and tingling in the feet (paresthesia) can range from a minor annoyance to a symptom of serious underlying disease. Accurate diagnosis of the cause is essential — treatment varies dramatically depending on whether the source is a compressed nerve in the foot, a systemic condition like diabetes, or a spinal problem. Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM at Balance Foot & Ankle evaluates and treats foot numbness and tingling in Michigan at our Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Township locations.

Common Causes of Foot Numbness and Tingling

Peripheral neuropathy (diabetic or idiopathic): Damage to the small sensory nerves of the feet causes burning, tingling, and numbness — typically in a “stocking” distribution starting at the toes and advancing up the foot and leg. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common cause in Michigan adults. Treatment focuses on blood sugar optimization and neuropathic pain management.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel behind the medial malleolus causes burning, tingling, and numbness on the bottom of the foot and into the toes. Analogous to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. Dr. Biernacki performs tarsal tunnel release when conservative management fails.

Morton’s neuroma: Interdigital nerve compression between the metatarsal heads causes burning, shooting pain and numbness in the 3rd and 4th toes. Treated with orthotics, injections, or neurectomy.

Baxter’s nerve entrapment: First branch of the lateral plantar nerve entrapment — causes heel numbness and lateral plantar pain, often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis.

Lumbar radiculopathy: Herniated disc or spinal stenosis compressing nerve roots L4, L5, or S1 can cause tingling and numbness in the foot and toes. Evaluation by a spine specialist may be indicated.

Raynaud’s phenomenon: Vascular spasm causing episodic numbness, color change, and tingling — typically triggered by cold.

Vitamin B12 deficiency: Can cause peripheral neuropathy symptoms; blood testing confirms diagnosis.

Diagnosis

Dr. Biernacki performs a thorough neurological examination including monofilament sensation testing, vibratory sense, deep tendon reflexes, and provocative nerve tests. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) identify peripheral neuropathy, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and distinguish peripheral from central causes. Laboratory workup (HbA1c, B12, thyroid, complete metabolic panel) screens for systemic contributors. MRI or CT may be ordered when spinal or space-occupying lesions are suspected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule your foot numbness evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell, Brighton, or Bloomfield Township, Michigan. Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive neurological foot assessment and coordinates with specialists as needed.

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your neuropathy, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with expert evaluations and advanced in-office care.

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