The Atlantic trade was in trouble because of the depredations of the English and Dutch. Catalonia was a self-governing province, ruled by a viceroy, that had been part of the Crown of Aragon since the Middle Ages. It was difficult to govern and in the reign of Philip II order had broken down almost completely.
Diabetics or others with nerve damage in the feet are also susceptible to toe cramp problems. Some medications may cause cramps in the toes as a side effect. Another possible cause of is a lack of minerals, such as calcium and potassium, in the body. Dehydration is another body problem that could cause cramping toes.
Numbness of the toes generally is a result of conditions that affect the nerves and/or blood vessels that supply the foot. Numbness of the toes is often associated with tingling. Numbness and tingling sensations in the toes is referred to as paresthesia of the toes. The most common cause of toe numbness is direct compression of the nerves of the foot from footwear from shoes. Numbness of the toe can occur because of injury to the foot, nerve damage (neuropathy), and poor circulation to the foot (such as with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease).