We’ve all experienced it;
those pins and needles after sitting cross-legged for an extended time. But
what exactly causes your foot to “fall asleep”? It is due to one of two things.
The sustained pressure on your leg causes your arteries to become compressed,
or your nerve pathways to become blocked.
Whether the tingling
sensation is due to a lack of nutrients to your tissues or an abnormal
transmission of electrochemical impulses to the brain, these sensations trigger
you to move your foot. Walking around or shaking your leg releases the pressure
on your arteries and nerves. It can be uncomfortable moving your foot during
this time, but it is imperative to get nutrient-rich blood flowing back to the
area. Permanent nerve damage can occur if blood flow is cut off for several
hours.
Image by Jason Howie. Crossed Legs. (2012). Flickr.
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