Although leg numbness is usually attributed to temporary discomfort caused by improper posture, it takes on a more significant role when it becomes chronic or recurrent. Persistent numbness in the legs often indicates an underlying health problem, necessitating understanding its root causes.

Below are the main factors that contribute to numbness in various leg conditions, according to the “medicalnewstoday” website.

Postural habits and external factors:
Temporary numbness in the legs and feet is often caused by postural habits that put pressure on nerves or limit blood flow in the lower extremities. Sitting or kneeling for long periods of time, crossing your legs, and wearing excessively tight pants, socks, or shoes are common causes.

Injuries and trauma:
Injuries to the trunk, spine, hips, legs, ankles, and feet can compress nerves, manifesting as numbness in these areas.

Diabetic neuropathy:
Individuals with diabetes may suffer from diabetic neuropathy, a form of nerve damage that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and legs.

Lower back problems and sciatica:
Problems such as collapsed or herniated discs in the lower back can put pressure on leg nerves, leading to numbness. Sciatica, an irritation of the sciatic nerve, can also lead to numbness in the leg or foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome:
Pressure, pinching, or damage to the nerve along the inside of the ankle and in the foot can cause tingling, numbness, and pain, which are common symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD):
Peripheral artery disease, characterized by narrowing of the arteries in the legs, arms and stomach, can reduce blood flow, sometimes leading to pain, cramping and numbness in the legs.

Tumors and growth:
Benign tumors or abnormal formations that press on the brain, spinal cord, or leg parts can limit blood flow, leading to numbness.

Alcohol-induced neuropathy:
The toxins in alcohol can damage nerves, causing numbness, especially in the feet. Chronic alcohol consumption may lead to nerve damage associated with low vitamin B levels.

Fibromyalgia:
A chronic condition that causes widespread aches and tenderness throughout the body, fibromyalgia may also lead to numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.

Multiple sclerosis (MS):
Individuals with MS may experience numbness due to damage to sensory nerves, affecting a local area or an entire limb.

Small strokes:
Strokes or mini-strokes can cause brain damage, affecting the interpretation and processing of nerve signals, which can lead to temporary or long-term numbness in different parts of the body.