That pins-and-needles feeling—should you worry?

Everyone has experienced the uncomfortable tingling sensation in their feet at some point. Maybe your foot “fell asleep” after sitting in one position for too long, and a quick stretch shook it off. But what if that tingling lingers? Or worse, what if it keeps coming back?

Tingling in the feet can be harmless, but it can also signal an underlying health issue. From nerve compression to circulation problems, there are many possible causes. Some are minor, while others require medical attention. Knowing when to pay attention and when to see a doctor can help you protect your health.

Let’s explore what might be causing your feet to tingle and when it’s time to take action.

Tingling in Feet: When to Pay Attention and What to Do

A tingling sensation in your feet—also called paresthesia—often happens when a nerve is compressed or irritated. 

It’s common when you sit cross-legged for too long, wear tight shoes, or wake up with your leg at an awkward angle. In these cases, the sensation is temporary and disappears after a few minutes and isn’t an issue.

However, persistent or frequent tingling isn’t something to ignore. Some common causes include:

• Nerve compression or injury – Sciatica, herniated discs, and pinched nerves in the lower back can cause tingling that radiates into the legs and feet.
• Diabetes – One of the most common causes of chronic tingling is diabetic neuropathy, a condition where high blood sugar damages the nerves.
• Poor circulation – The feet may feel numb or tingly from restricted blood flow due to peripheral artery disease (PAD) or other vascular conditions.
• Vitamin deficiencies – Not getting enough B vitamins, particularly B12, can lead to nerve-related tingling.
• Autoimmune conditions – Diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and lupus can cause tingling as a symptom of nerve inflammation.

What to do: If your tingling comes and goes, try moving around, adjusting your posture, or improving your diet. But if it persists, worsens, or spreads, it’s time to take it seriously.

When is Tingling in Feet a Sign of a Serious Health Condition?

Most of the time, tingling in your feet isn’t an emergency. But in some cases, it can signal a more serious condition, especially if it happens with other symptoms.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• Sudden weakness or loss of coordination
• Severe pain along with tingling
• Changes in bladder or bowel control
• Tingling that spreads up your legs

These symptoms could be signs of a stroke, nerve damage, or a spinal issue that needs urgent care.

When to See a Doctor About Tingling Feet

If the tingling in your feet is mild and occasional, monitoring it might be enough. But if it doesn’t go away or keeps coming back, a doctor can help determine the cause.

See a doctor if:

• Your tingling lasts for weeks or keeps coming back
• You experience numbness or weakness in addition to tingling
• You have a known condition like diabetes and notice new symptoms
• The sensation worsens over time

A medical professional can run tests, check your nerve function, and identify any underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.

Conclusion: Get Expert Care for Tingling Feet at Summit Health

Tingling in your feet can be harmless, but persistent or worsening symptoms may signal an underlying health issue. Whether it’s a circulation problem, nerve damage, or an undiagnosed condition, identifying the cause early can prevent further complications.

At Summit Health, our specialists in neurology, endocrinology, and vascular health work together to diagnose and treat conditions that may be causing your symptoms. If you’re experiencing frequent tingling, numbness, or discomfort in your feet, don’t ignore it. 

Schedule an appointment with a Summit Health provider today and take the next step toward relief.