The sensation of burning feet is a relatively common disorder that affects many people and sometimes affects their quality of life.

This manifests itself by a feeling of intense heat, tingling or even localized pain in the soles of the feet.

This phenomenon, often called burning feet syndrome , can appear occasionally or become permanent. In some cases, it is simply a temporary discomfort, but in others, this syndrome reflects a pathology that should be examined carefully.

What are the symptoms of burning feet syndrome?

The symptoms experienced vary from one individual to another, but the constant remains a persistent burning sensation. Many people also describe tingling, pins and needles, numbness, or hypersensitivity that makes even the touch of a blanket painful.

Sometimes the skin turns red, and the feet feel really hot for no particular reason. Resting often accentuates these symptoms, which is why many patients report having burning feet at night and having trouble falling asleep.

In what contexts do the symptoms appear?

Burning feet syndrome occurs in a wide variety of circumstances.

Some people feel it after exertion or prolonged standing, while others associate it mainly with extreme heat.

In older people, the discomfort is often more pronounced because blood circulation is less efficient and the nerves become more fragile.

In many cases, heartburn occurs at rest, especially in the evening, when muscle relaxation and slowed circulation make the sensation more noticeable.

What causes burning feet syndrome?

There are several factors that can explain the sensation of burning feet.

Peripheral neuropathy

This is the most common cause. It corresponds to damage to the peripheral nerves, which then send painful or inappropriate signals.

Diabetic neuropathy

In people with diabetes, excess sugar gradually damages the nerves, often resulting in burning soles of the feet or pain in the extremities.

Vitamin deficiencies

A deficiency in vitamins B12, B6 or B1 can cause nerve damage responsible for burning and tingling sensations.

Various infections

Some infections, such as HIV or severe yeast infections, can cause nerve or skin irritation.

Blood circulation problems

Poor circulation to the feet can also cause a feeling of heat, heaviness or burning.

Note that thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, alcohol abuse, and exposure to toxic substances or certain medications are other causes of burning feet syndrome.

The diagnosis must be made by a healthcare professional, as each cause requires specific treatment.

When should you see a doctor?

It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional when symptoms become recurrent or worsen over time. If the pain disrupts sleep, is accompanied by loss of sensation or muscle weakness, a medical evaluation is necessary.

The presence of wounds that heal poorly or balance disorders should also raise alarm bells. A doctor may order blood tests, neurological tests, or an electromyogram to determine the exact cause of burning feet syndrome.

Can this syndrome lead to complications?

Ignoring the problem can have consequences. In people with diabetes, the burning sensation can mask deeper lesions and lead to chronic wounds. In other cases, untreated neuropathy progresses to loss of mobility or motor impairment.

Sleep disturbances caused by repeated nighttime burning sensations lead to fatigue, irritability, and a reduced quality of life. If left untreated, burning feet syndrome is not just a discomfort, but can also pose a very real risk of complications.

What solutions are there to relieve and treat this syndrome?

Treatment depends entirely on the cause. When neuropathy is identified, doctors may prescribe specific medications, such as certain antiepileptics or antidepressants used to modulate nerve pain.

In the case of diabetes, regulating blood sugar levels remains essential. Vitamin supplements may be recommended to correct a deficiency, while other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, require specialized monitoring.

At the same time, simple daily measures can reduce discomfort:

  • Taking a cool foot bath often helps to soothe the burning,
  • Choosing suitable, comfortable and breathable shoes and socks limits irritation,
  • Orthopedic insoles sometimes relieve pressure on the soles of the feet,
  • Regular hydration of the skin and careful hygiene also enhance comfort.

Finally, prevention is based on a balanced lifestyle:

  • A varied diet that provides sufficient B vitamins,
  • Regular physical activity to stimulate circulation,
  • Limited alcohol consumption.

In conclusion, the sensation of burning feet, especially when it occurs at night, should not be ignored. Although it can be benign and related to fatigue or heat, it can also indicate neuropathy, a circulatory problem, or an underlying illness. Consulting a doctor remains essential to identify the cause and implement appropriate treatment.