While rehabbing a bad back and hip that went out, I developed some tingling and numbness in 2 toes. It's not constant, but has now spread to big toe.  When I mentioned this to my PT, she said she couldn't find any skeltal reason, but asked if I'd ever been told I might have diabetes.  I get regularly tested for it since my parents both have type 2 (didn't start til their late 70's), but could loss of feeling in extremities  be the very first symptom?

Could be, but could be your back.  I'd ask my doctor.

If you're worried about diabetes, you could get an inexpensive monitor and check your glucose yourself (waking, before & 2 hours after meals).  Walmart's Relion meter is inexpensive as are the strips. 

You might also want to check out Dr. Bernstein's Diabetes Solution.  He gives lots of information about testing.  ISBN 0316167169

http://www.paperbackswap.com/Dr-Bernsteins-Diabetes-Richard-K-Bernstein/book/0316167169/