Overview

Burning feet syndrome, also known as burning feet syndrome, is defined by a slew of symptoms, including very hot and painful feet that reoccur on a frequent basis. If the burning feeling continues throughout the day, it is possible that it may worsen at night before going away. The severity of the symptoms may vary from moderate to severe. While the heat and discomfort are typically limited to the soles of the feet, depending on the intensity, they may also affect the tops of the feet, ankles, and lower legs.

There are no objective tests for assessing the degree of foot pain or burning, your doctor will attempt to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms.

A physical examination is carried out. Your doctor will almost likely ask about your medical history, including any current physical problems and medications you are taking. He or she will evaluate your reflexes and check for signs of infection, injury, and other problems while examining your feet.

Blood glucose testing and nutritional deficiency screening may aid in the identification of nutritional deficits and endocrine disorders. CBCis usually performed. Additional laboratory tests include electrolytes in serum and urine (magnesium, sodium, potassium, vitamin B levels and chloride).

If there is a suspicion of nervous system dysfunction, nerve function examination through electrical diagnostic tests may be performed.

Causes

Nerve damage is one of the main causes that may be induced by a variety of factors. This condition may occur as a consequence of a variety of illnesses, back injuries, or progressive disintegration (degenerative alterations) of the spine, as well as surgery, chemotherapy drugs, or other medications, or chemical exposure.

Peripheral neuropathy: This is a frequent and severe cause of burning foot syndrome. When the peripheral sensory nerves that link the spinal cord to the extremities are destroyed, it is possible to become paralyzed. It is more prevalent among long-term diabetics and those with poorly managed blood glucose levels. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy develops gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated. Chemotherapy drugs, genetic illnesses, autoimmune disorders (including rheumatoid arthritis), hazardous chemical exposure, infections, renal failure, alcoholism, and dietary deficiencies are among the causes of peripheral neuropathy.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome: The tarsal tunnel is a small area of the ankle that runs from the heel to the toes and is situated near the ankle bones. Ankle discomfort is often caused by this condition. It causes a lot of discomfort in the foot. As a result, there is a lot of burning and tingling in the foot. The posterior tibial nerve (placed behind the longest bone in the lower leg) is compressed or squeezed within the tarsal tunnel, causing discomfort and edema. It affects the inside of the ankles and calves of the legs causing burning feet.

Morton’s neuroma: A neuroma is a painful mass that may grow between the bones at the base of the toes. Ankle neuromas may be caused by a variety of factors, including sports injuries, stress, and poor foot posture and mobility. Wearing too-tight shoes is the most common cause.

Diabetes: Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes have the potential to harm the body’s peripheral nerves, particularly the sensory nerves in the feet and legs. Long-term high blood glucose levels or poorly managed diabetes may have severe consequences on peripheral nerves, particularly in the elderly. Elevated blood sugar levels hinder impulse transmission from these neurons and may potentially cause damage to the blood vessel walls themselves causing burning sensation in feet.

Athlete’s Foot: It is a kind of foot infection. This fungal disease is caused by the fungus which develops in moist, warm regions of the skin and resembles mold. Fungus grows and spreads more rapidly in damp shoes and socks, as well as in humid settings. Athlete’s foot may cause stinging and burning on the soles of the feet in addition to itching, burning, and stinging between the toes.

Other burning feet syndrome causes are:

Erythermalgia: It results in intense burning sensations, elevated skin temperature, and noticeable redness on the toes and soles of the feet. Flare-ups, on the other hand, may occur only at certain times of the year and last anywhere from a few minutes to several days, or the burning sensation may be constant. As a result of the illness’s impact on the body, affected regions may become unpleasant, swollen, and heated.

Tight shoes: Tight stockings or shoes put pressure on feet and may cause burning feet syndrome.

Physical allergies, contact dermatitis and multiple sclerosis may also cause burning in feet.

In rare instances, burning feet syndrome may occur due to vitamin B5 deficiency.

Symptoms

The burning feet syndrome symptoms are as follows: 

• Heat or burning sensations, which often exacerbate at night.
• Feet or legs that are numb.
• Pain that is sharp or stabbing.
• You weigh your feet.
• You have a dull ache in your feet.
• Excessive warmth or redness of the skin.
• Prickling, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation (paresthesia).

Diagnosis

Most persons with burning feet have a known reason (such as diabetes). Diagnosing neuropathy-related burning feet is precise for these persons, and no extra testing is required.

Further testing may be required to provide an accurate burning feet syndrome diagnosis in a few persons whose burning sensation is acute, rapidly worsening, or has no explainable cause.

Treatment

The most critical treatment for burning feet is stopping further nerve damage. Treatment of the underlying condition may improve neuropathy and symptoms in specific individuals. In some cases, such as tiny fiber neuropathy, where no cause can be found, the primary care physician will focus on treating the patient’s symptoms.

Burning feet syndrome Treatment involves maintaining normal blood sugar levels. This necessitates typically dietary adjustments, oral drugs, and, in some cases, insulin injections.

When To See A Doctor

Seek medical or podiatric counsel for assistance in determining the source of chronic or worsening burning or tingling sensations that are not responding to home therapy.

Diabetes, peripheral nerve injury, and malnutrition are a few of the medical issues that may manifest as burning feet as a sign of a more severe underlying medical issue that needs treatment. If diabetes is not treated or is misdiagnosed, the peripheral nerves of the body may be permanently injured, and the damage may be irreparable.Thus, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible in case you feel a persistent burning sensation.

Summary 

 Burning feet syndrome is marked by a recurring sensation of heat and pain in the feet, which can affect the soles, tops, ankles, and lower legs with varying severity. The discomfort often worsens at night and may include numbness, sharp pain, or tingling. Common causes include nerve damage from conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, particularly prevalent among diabetics. Studies show that up to 50% of diabetics experience diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a key contributor to burning feet syndrome.

 Other causes include tarsal tunnel syndrome, where compression of the posterior tibial nerve results in pain, Morton’s neuroma, and athlete’s foot. Additionally, tight shoes and vitamin deficiencies can also contribute. Approximately 5% of the general population suffers from Morton’s neuroma at some point in their lives.

 Diagnosis involves a comprehensive physical examination, including blood tests to identify nutritional deficiencies or endocrine disorders. Nerve function tests might be used if nervous system dysfunction is suspected.

 Treatment strategies focus on addressing the underlying cause and preventing further nerve damage. For diabetics, managing blood sugar levels through dietary changes, medications, or insulin is crucial. Other treatments may focus on symptom management when no specific cause is identified.

Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen despite home remedies, as they may indicate serious underlying conditions such as diabetes, peripheral nerve injury, or malnutrition. Early intervention is crucial to prevent irreversible damage.

-Disclaimer-

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about burning feet syndrome or any other medical condition, please see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions.