What Causes Burning Feet?

There are many medical diseases that can cause a burning sensation in the feet. Not only diseases, but also some normal physiological causes such as excessive exercise, excessive heat or exposure to the sun cause burning problems in the feet. The term "burning feet" is also used to express the burning sensation in the feet. The point we will focus on is the burning sensation in the feet, which bothers individuals especially every night.

The burning sensation can sometimes be accompanied by pain, numbness and redness. In addition to these symptoms, some patients complain that itching and sweating accompany the burns. In a disease called eryromelalgia, all these complaints are seen together.

In researches on burning feet, it is reported that burning sensation in the feet can be a hereditary syndrome without any reason. Burning feet syndrome differs in that it can be seen not only at night but also during daylight hours. On the other hand, it is known to occur during the course of an existing neurological disorder.

We would like to present a short list of problems that can cause a burning sensation in the feet. These are;

Sensory Polyneuropathies: This is the most common cause of burning sensation in the feet. It is a condition in which the sensory nerves that develop gradually are damaged when blood sugar cannot be controlled in patients with diabetes for a long time. At the same time, drugs applied to treat cancer, some genetic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, infections, alcohol habits and especially B vitamin deficiencies are among the causes of peripheral neuropathy. When we look in general, 3 problems that we encounter frequently appear as the responsible of burning feet. Diabetes, Alcohol use and compression of the nerves in the lower back.

Lower back hernia: In hernias located at the bottom of the waist and between L5-S2, foot burns are seen due to the pressure of the nerves going to the foot. If the event is chronic, the burns also become chronic.

Sciatic nerve damage: When the wrong needles damage the sciatic nerve, foot burns are seen if the causes such as hip fracture have damaged the sciatic nerve.

Thyroid disorders: Foot burns are common, especially in the absence of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism).

Rheumatoid arthritis: One of the inflammatory rheumatisms, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to nerve compression by deforming the joints. This situation directly or indirectly causes a burning sensation in the feet.

Menopause (more defined as burning feet during rest or sleep)

Excessive walking and running, inappropriate footwear (athlete's foot)

Urea: As a result of kidney failure, it increases in the blood and can cause a burning sensation in the feet by causing electrolyte changes.

Deficiency of B vitamins, especially B6, B5 and B12 vitamins, is the cause of foot burns.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS disease) is among the causes of severe foot burns.

How Is Burning Feet Diagnosed?

First of all, it is an important start for patients to express that they have a burning sensation in their feet. Detailed examination of the physician is very important in creating the roadmap and treatment plan. It is necessary to investigate the underlying diseases that may cause foot burn. Then, cause-oriented treatments are applied. Some blood tests, requesting MRIs when necessary, and having EMG (nerve test) performed are serious guides in terms of revealing the cause.

Burning Feet Treatment

Ozone oil is useful in simple foot burns. Some medications may be given. (such as gabapentin, alpha lipoic acid, B vitamins) Injections to the spinal canal and permanent radiofrequency nerve block applications for the sympathetic nervous system are inevitable for more persistent pain.