A burning sensation in the feet is primarily caused by nerve damage, often related to peripheral neuropathy. This condition can arise from various causes including diabetes, alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, hypothyroidism, peripheral artery disease, and infections like athlete's foot. Other physical causes include nerve injuries, pressure on nerves (such as tarsal tunnel syndrome), exposure to extreme temperatures or chemicals, and poor footwear. Nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin B12 deficiency, and certain diseases like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may also contribute to this symptom.
Common Causes of Burning Feet
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage due to diabetes, alcohol abuse, infections, chemotherapy drugs, or toxic substances can cause burning sensations in the feet.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar damages nerves, causing peripheral neuropathy, which leads to burning pain often accompanied by tingling or numbness.
- Alcoholism: Toxic effects of alcohol and associated malnutrition can damage peripheral nerves.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Particularly vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage and burning feet.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can cause nerve swelling and pressure, resulting in burning feet.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the legs can cause burning pain especially when severe.
- Nerve Compression Syndromes: Tarsal tunnel syndrome compresses nerves near the ankle causing burning pain in the foot.
- Skin Infections: Athlete’s foot due to fungal infection causes burning, itching, and stinging sensations.
- Other Causes: Ill-fitting shoes, foot trauma, exposure to heat or cold, and certain chronic illnesses like HIV or kidney disease.
The burning sensation is often worse at night and can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain. Proper diagnosis and treatment depend on identifying the underlying cause.
