The most common cause of bilaterally symmetrical foot numbness is peripheral neuropathy (https://neckandback.com/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/). It is possible that these symptoms originate from the spine but the symptoms generally would not be symmetric. It’s not to difficult to determine if this is vascular. There is a test called an ankle/brachial index where blood pressure is taken from the ankle and arm and compared. This can determine if there is vascular insufficiency. Present pulses are even an easier test with capillary refill under two seconds (Blanch the great toe with finger pressure and “let go”. The toe should “pink up” in under two seconds).
The gold standard is a neurological consult with nerve conduction studies. This can determine peripheral neuropathy vs. radiculopathy (origin from the spine).
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
