What Causes Burning Feet?
The feeling that your feet are on fire is often caused by diabetic nerve damage that is a result of high uric acid in the blood. This condition, called neuropathy, can cause a sense of tingling and numbness and a burning feeling that can range from mild to severe. Two common causes of peripheral nerve damage are complications from diabetes and from excess alcohol consumption.
The sensation of burning feet can be caused by:
● Kidney and liver disease
● Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
● Hypothyroidism
● Medication side effects
● Heavy metal contamination
● Circulation problems
● Artery disease
● Athlete’s foot fungal infections
Diagnosing the cause of a burning feet sensation is usually done with electromyography, nerve conduction studies, and with blood, urine and spinal fluid examinations. Properly fitted footwear with custom orthotic inserts can treat a variety of conditions that create a burning foot sensation. Foot neuromas and sesamoiditis are two conditions that can be alleviated with the proper use of orthotics. Avoiding alcohol and getting extra doses of vitamin B and mineral supplements will also decrease burning, numbness, and tingling.
If you are currently suffering from burning foot pain, it is important to see a foot specialist to receive the correct care. At Fit Feet for Life, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies and years of experience to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including heel pain, sports injuries, toe deformities, nail fungus, and plantar warts. Bonnie Sanchez, DPM, Gregory Cook, DPM, and Huy L. Nguyen, DPM provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area at our five offices conveniently located in Sun City Center, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and our two Tampa locations. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.