What Causes Pins And Needle Sensation In The Feet?

Posted on Sun, 28 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 Answered on

Fri, 3 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : For the past year I have been getting cramps in my feet at night. Sometime it happens hourly. I have yet to determine the cause. My blood work is fine. Dehydration seems a likely culprit. During the past six months I now have pins and needles in the three outer toes on my right foot. Certain stretches seem to make it worse. I notice it less when I have shoes on then when I’m barefoot. Any ideas?

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Could be due to low potassium levels. Dehydration likely association.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. It seems that somehow you have developed an electrolyte imbalance. I would insist you to take juicy fruits like citrus fruits. They contain plenty of potassium which should help in proper functioning of the muscles and in reduction of the cramps. You also need to increase total fluid (water) intake and to take plenty of ORS (oral rehydration solution) to replenish the lost fluids and salts.

Your symptoms of pins and needles seem consistent with deficiency of Vitamin B12. Taking methylcobalamine (Vitamin B12) 1500 mcg supplement per day for at least a couple of weeks should help in improving the situation.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng