Causes of Tingling in the Leg & Foot

Numerous conditions can cause tingling in the leg and foot. According to the Foot Health Facts website, tingling in the leg and foot may indicate neurological or vascular problems 1. In some cases, tingling in the leg and foot may be accompanied by pain, burning or numbness. Tingling, wherever it occurs in the body, is an abnormal sensation that requires evaluation by a qualified health care professional.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a common cause of tingling in the lower leg and foot 2. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the inside aspect of the ankle just below the medial malleolus or the prominent bony bump. Compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through this tunnel causes tarsal tunnel syndrome 2. Common signs and symptoms associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome include pain, burning or tingling in the affected-side lower extremity, foot numbness and burning pain or tingling that is worse with prolonged standing, walking or exercising 2. The Merck Manuals website states that fracture and inflammatory arthritis are contributing factors in the development of tarsal tunnel syndrome 2.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre syndrome is an uncommon autoimmune disorder that causes tingling in the leg and foot. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, or NINDS, states that Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body's immune system targets the peripheral nervous system or the nerves that exist outside the brain and spinal cord. Although the exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown, it is usually preceded by a respiratory infection or the stomach flu. Guillain-Barre syndrome affects approximately one or two people per 100,000.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease can cause tingling in the lower extremity 3. According to MayoClinic.com, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a collection of hereditary disorders that target the nerves in the arms and legs 3. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a progressive disease that causes muscle weakness and atrophy or wasting 3. Although Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease-related symptoms usually originate in the feet and legs, they may eventually spread to the hands and arms 3. MayoClinic.com states that Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease usually begins during adolescence or early adulthood 3.