Burning feet is a miserable condition, as more often than not there is no cure and the treatment is symptomatic.
Common causes include:
- Nerve damage: Peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, can cause burning feet. Diabetes, alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medications are common causes of peripheral neuropathy.
- Nerve entrapment: Nerves in the feet can become compressed or entrapped, leading to burning sensations. Conditions such as Morton’s neuroma, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or nerve impingement due to foot deformities can cause this problem.
- Poor circulation: Reduced blood flow to the feet, often due to peripheral artery disease (PAD), can result in a burning sensation. Conditions like atherosclerosis or blood vessel inflammation can contribute to poor circulation.
- Athlete’s foot: Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can cause itching, burning, and redness between the toes and on the soles of the feet.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antiretrovirals used for HIV, or certain antibiotics, can cause peripheral neuropathy and lead to burning feet.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol abuse can contribute to nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy, leading to a burning sensation in the feet.
- Vitamin deficiencies: Inadequate levels of certain vitamins, particularly vitamins B1, B6, and B12, can result in nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause various symptoms, including burning feet. Thyroid hormone imbalances can affect nerve function.
- Systemic diseases: Certain systemic conditions, like kidney dysfunction, liver disease, or autoimmune disorders, can lead to peripheral neuropathy and burning feet.
- Trauma or injury: Previous foot or leg injuries, such as fractures, sprains, or nerve damage, can cause persistent burning sensations.