Thanks for the question and certainly something worth discussing.
There seems to be two issues here:
1. The numbness in the toe and foot pad
2. The history of colour change
From the first point, sensation is detected and transmitted through nerves. If you consider nerves to be a bit like wiring in a house, then you have the "peripheral" nerve that are situated around the foot (a bit like the wiring in your house) and then you have the "central" nerves that are around the spine and brain (a bit like the national grid).
If there is an issue with sensation or nerve conduction it can be from a peripheral or central issue. Often there are other symptoms that go along with this (such as tingling, weakness, changes in reflexes etc) depending on where the problem might be and certainly it sounds like you would benefit from getting this assessed.
From the history of colour change and blueness in the toe, there could be an issue with blood flow and once again might warrant further questioning or investigation; this might include blood tests for various conditions.
Overall, I think it would be a good idea to consult someone about these symptoms.
Perhaps start with medical team at your camp? They might refer you on for further investigation in one of the hospitals local to where you are based.
BW
Dr Dinesh
