Nerves and circulation
GuideTingling in the footTingling in the foot is a 'pins and needles' feeling that is common and usually settles within minutes once pressure is taken off a nerve. Tingling that lasts or keeps coming back can have other causes, such as diabetes, so it's worth having it checked rather than guessing.GuideCold feetCold feet is a symptom, not a condition in itself. It can come from narrowed arteries, Raynaud's phenomenon or nerve changes, so finding the cause comes first. Simple steps such as not smoking, regular walking and good foot care can help, and some signs need same-day care.GuideTarsal tunnel syndromeTarsal tunnel syndrome is a squeezed nerve on the inside of the ankle, causing burning, tingling or numbness in the sole, heel or inner ankle. It's often missed. Simple care such as adjusting activity, stretching and supportive footwear is the usual first step, with injections or surgery kept for later.GuideFoot crampsFoot cramps are sudden, painful tightenings of a muscle in the foot, and they usually ease within minutes on their own. Often no cause is found. Gently stretching or massaging the muscle helps when one strikes, but ways to stop them coming back are limited. Some signs need prompt medical help.GuideSwollen feet and anklesFoot and ankle swelling is usually oedema, fluid building up under the skin. It often comes from long periods of standing or sitting, but can also come from a vein, heart, kidney or liver problem. Keeping your ankles moving helps. Sudden or one-sided swelling should be seen by a GP or podiatrist the same day.GuideBurning feetBurning feet are a disturbed feeling in the feet, often with tingling or numbness. Nerve damage is a common cause, especially with diabetes, but there are other causes. A GP or podiatrist can work out why, and what helps depends on the cause.GuidePeripheral arterial disease (PAD)Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is narrowing of the leg arteries that cuts blood flow to the muscles, often causing calf pain when you walk. Regular walking exercise and stopping smoking are the main first steps. Some signs, such as pain at rest or a wound that won't heal, need same-day care.GuidePeripheral neuropathyPeripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often causing numbness, tingling or burning pain in the feet. Diabetes is the most common cause. Protecting your feet, looking after the underlying cause and getting checked early all help limit problems.GuideNumbness in the footNumbness in the foot means losing some or all feeling, often with tingling, because of a problem with the nerves. Diabetes is the most common cause, but there are many others. A doctor can look for the cause, and protecting your feet from unnoticed injury matters in the meantime.GuideClaudication: leg pain when walkingClaudication is cramp-like pain, aching or tiredness in the calf or other leg muscles that comes on with walking and eases with rest. It's usually caused by narrowed leg arteries. Stopping smoking, structured exercise and looking after blood pressure and cholesterol are the main first steps.