Burning feet is a common foot complaint among many groups, most commonly in the over 50's and in diabetics who generally experience these sensations at night time. There are many different causes of this condition and whilst some may also encounter redness and swelling, often there is no
physical sign of this condition.
Causes In many cases the cause is simply due to the fact that when our core temperature is warmer (such as in summer or in bed at night), our body allows more blood to flow down to our feet than it often does when its colder. This increase in blood flow can lead to our feet feeling warmer than we are comfortable with and warmer than what we are used to and is more common in women, especially during menopause.
Other causes may
include:
Dampness, together with friction, leads to the sensation of burning, so its important to buy shoes that let perspiration evaporate.
Many feet just ache and burn at the end of a long day, especially in those who are on their feet all day or are overweight (mechanical overload)
Pregnancy. The hormones and changes in blood volume together with increased weight on the feet can add together
to create heat in the feet.
Inappropriate socks. Wear socks made of cotton rather than synthetic fabrics.
Athletes foot can sometimes spread to cause burning sensation on the sole of the foot.
Allergic reaction or sensitivity to shoe material or socks.
Alcohol is also contributing factor. Long term use can affect the nervous activity of the feet.
Neuropathy such as that which occurs with Diabetes, chronic alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies (usually B) and heavy metal poisoning
Smoking
Neuroma. A trapped nerve can lead to a hot burning sensation such as in Mortons Neuroma or tarsal tunnel
syndrome.
Cycling. "Hot foot" is the term given by cyclists to describe a number of conditions of the foot - the most common condition being Mortons Neuroma. The heat created from the friction and pressure on the ball of the foot during cycling creates a number of conditions such as neuromas, calluses, metatarsal-phalangeal
joint capsulitis, plantar plate irritations and stress reactions or stress fractures in the metatarsal shafts. These conditions together with the increased blood flow during exercise, compressive pressure from tights cleated shoes, and constant pivoting pressures can all add together to create what we know as "hot foot,"
Gout can cause a
burning sensation on the side of the foot and heat due to inflammation.
Hormonal imbalances such as Graves Disease and hyperthyroidism.
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy or complex regional pain syndrome following trauma (including surgery)
Treatment The treatment of hot feet is often dependent on the cause of the problem. For this reason it is
important that you get your feet checked to make sure your get the right advice.
If mechanical i.e. over use of the feet and muscles, the good fitting shoes with support is important. For some, orthotics may also help to reduce the extra load on the feet.
Hot and sweaty feet can be assisted by good airflow in shoes.
Creams or ointments with cooling properties such as menthol can help relieve the
symptoms
Wear socks made of cotton rather than synthetic fabrics
Bath feet in cool water if needed or stick them out from the bed if its happening at night.
Avoid prolonged period of standing where possible and if needed put your feet up to assist with swelling and venous return.
Cushioning or shock absorbing insoles may make standing more tolerable
Related
Articles Swollen feet Pregnancy and feet Athletes Feet Diabetes
A feeling that your feet are burning when you are
lying in bed at night could be a sign of peripheral neuropathy -- nerve damage. About half of all people with diabetes develop some form of nerve damage when excess glucose injures the walls of the blood vessels that feed the nerves. Other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling or pain in the feet, or a decreased ability to feel pain, hot or cold there. Your doctor may be able to do some tests to determine if your nerves are functioning normally. Treating peripheral
neuropathy involves taking steps to keep your blood glucose levels in a normal range, pain management and good foot care.
You feel burning because the nerves in your feet have been
affected by your diabetes. "Painful neuropathy" is a term used to describe diabetic feet that are painful without an obvious cause. People with painful neuropathy usually describe a "pins and needles" sensation or a dull burning in the feet and legs that is more apparent at night (when there are few other things to distract you). You may also experience frequent leg cramps. Because painful neuropathy is difficult to cure once it is established, the best treatment is to prevent it by controlling
your blood glucose. These nerve problems occur more frequently in men and in people who have had diabetes for many years, are tall, smoke, or have poor blood glucose control.
If you already have painful neuropathy, there are treatments available that provide some relief for about 50% of people. These treatments include the use of antidepressant medicines, certain heart medications, and creams made from chili peppers (capsaicin). These creams are rubbed on the feet to desensitize them. If
you do not get relief from one of these treatments, the good news is that the pain from this neuropathy often lessens over time.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific
health needs.
