Tingling, Burning, or Weakness in the Legs or Arms? A Subtle Deficiency Could Be the Culprit
Tingling, burning, numbness, or weakness in the hands and feet can sometimes be caused by a vitamin deficiency, with vitamin B12 deficiency being one important possibility. B12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerves, and low levels can contribute to peripheral neuropathy (damage or dysfunction of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord).
Possible signs of vitamin B12 deficiency-related nerve problems
Symptoms may include:
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
- Burning pain in the feet or hands
- Numbness or reduced sensation
- Muscle weakness
- Balance problems or unsteadiness
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Fatigue or low energy
- Memory or concentration difficulties in some people
Who is more likely to have low B12?
Risk can be higher in people who:
- Are older adults
- Eat little or no animal products without fortified foods or supplements
- Have conditions affecting absorption, such as certain stomach or intestinal disorders
- Have had stomach or intestinal surgery
- Take certain medications, including long-term metformin or acid-reducing medicines (such as some proton pump inhibitors
