Do your feet often feel hot and irritated? If so, you may be suffering from burning foot syndrome. This condition can be very uncomfortable and frustrating to deal with. While it has many potential causes, fortunately, there are also several home remedies that can provide relief. We’ve compiled a list of the five most effective home remedies for burning feet syndrome. These remedies are simple, affordable, and easy to use.
What is Burning Feet Syndrome?
Burning feet syndrome is a condition characterized by burning, tingling, or numbness in the feet. During the day, there may be some respite from the burning; however, it may worsen at night. The discomfort and heat may only be felt in the bottoms of the feet or extend to the tops, ankles, and even lower legs.
Causes of Burning Foot Syndrome
Burning feet syndrome may occur for various causes, some of which are minor, while others call for emergency medical treatment due to their severity. Some of the most common causes include:
- Nerve damage: This can be caused by different diseases, back injuries, or the spine’s slow breakdown (degenerative changes). It can also be caused by surgery, taking chemotherapy drugs or other drugs, or being exposed to toxins.
- Diabetes mellitus: Type 1 and type 2 diabetes may damage pain-sensing neurons in the feet and legs. High glucose or uncontrolled diabetes may damage nerves over time. High blood glucose levels may hinder neuronal signaling and damage blood vessel walls.
- Athlete’s foot: A fungal infection that commonly affects the feet.
- Gout: A form of arthritis that causes inflammation and joint pain.
- Plantar fasciitis: An inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes.
- Peripheral artery disease: A narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup.
Symptoms of Burning Foot Syndrome
The symptoms of burning foot syndrome can vary from mild to severe and may depend on its cause. They may include the following:
- Feelings of heat or burning, which often become worse at night
- Prickling, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation
- A stinging or sharp ache
- Numb legs or feet
- Dull pain in the feet
- A heavy feeling in the feet
- Skin rashes or excessive heat
- Swelling
Home Remedies for Burning Feet Syndrome
Several burning foot syndrome remedies may help relieve its symptoms. Some of these home remedies include:
Epsom Salt Baths
Soaking your feet in a tub of warm water with Epsom salt can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Epsom salt is a natural home remedy that has been used for centuries to relieve pain and discomfort. Prepare a foot bath by adding two cups of Epsom salt to a tub of warm water. Soak your feet for 20 minutes, then dry them thoroughly with a clean towel.
Cold Water Therapy
Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce burning, tingling, and numbness. Cold water therapy is a simple and effective home remedy that can be done in minutes. Get a clean cloth and soak it in cold water. You can also wrap a frozen gel pack or ice cubes in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat this home remedy as needed.
Olive Oil Massage
Massaging your feet with olive oil can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation. This home remedy is easy to do and only requires a few minutes of your time. Prepare a small bowl of warm olive oil and massage it into your feet for a few minutes.
Vinegar Soaks
Vinegar has antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help treat burning foot syndrome caused by athlete’s foot. Get a large bowl and fill it with one part vinegar and two parts warm water. Soak your feet in the mixture for 15-20 minutes and pat them dry afterward with a clean towel.
Vitamin B Complex
Taking vitamin B complex supplements can help improve nerve function and relieve burning feet syndrome symptoms. Vitamin B complex is an essential vitamin that can be found in many foods, such as eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products. Make sure you include these foods in your diet.
Cayenne Pepper
Applying cayenne pepper to the affected area can help relieve pain and tingling. Cayenne pepper is a spice containing capsaicin, a natural pain reliever that can help reduce burning feet syndrome symptoms. Prepare a small amount of cayenne pepper by mixing it with a carrier oil, such as olive oil. Apply it to the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes. Wash it off with warm water.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is known to have anti-inflammatory and cooling properties that can help soothe burning feet. It is often used to treat sunburns. Get a quality aloe vera gel and massage it into your feet.
When to Seek Medical Help
These home remedies for burning foot syndrome can help relieve the symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing severe pain, numbness, or tingling, please see a doctor as soon as possible. Burning foot syndrome can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for preventing further complications.
Ask your doctor the following questions:
- Would altering my diet be beneficial? If yes, could you please explain the significance of certain vitamins and minerals?
- Will the burning sensation comes back even after it is treated?
- Can I regularly use ice?
- Can you suggest a therapeutic orthotic device for me in particular?
- Can the burning be brought on by my shoes or washing detergent
About NetStepsUSA
At NetStep, we offer custom shoe insoles made from high-quality materials designed to last. Our orthotics collection comes in a variety, depending on your personal needs. Whether it’s sports insoles, therapeutic insoles, or lifestyle orthotics, we have them! We also offer a free insole fitting diagnosis that helps you identify the point of pain and shoes you wear so we can provide you with the right insoles you need.
If you’re interested in getting your custom orthotics, contact us today!