MedDroidSymptom guide
Burning feet: causes, warning signs & what to do
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed
Medically reviewedA burning, prickling or hot feeling in the soles is common in India, especially in people with diabetes. It is usually a sign that the small nerves in the feet are irritated — the cause is often treatable once found.
Possible causes
Common causes of burning feet
- Diabetic nerve damage (neuropathy) — the most common cause, often worse at night
- Long-standing high blood sugar or undiagnosed diabetes
- Low vitamin B12 — common in vegetarians and people on long-term diabetes or acid medicines
- Fungal infection between the toes (athlete’s foot), with itching and peeling skin
- Kidney disease, an underactive thyroid or heavy alcohol use
- Tight footwear, long hours standing, or a pinched nerve at the ankle
Self-care
What you can do now
- Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters or colour change — burning feet can come with reduced feeling
- Wear soft, well-fitting footwear; avoid walking barefoot on hot floors
- Soak feet in cool (not ice-cold) water for short periods; dry well between the toes
- If you have diabetes, keep your sugar readings in your target range and keep foot reviews regular
Red flags
When to see a doctor urgently
- A foot wound, blister or ulcer that is not healing, or skin turning black or blue
- Burning with spreading weakness in the legs, or difficulty walking
- A red, hot, swollen foot with fever (possible infection) — seek same-day care
- Loss of bladder or bowel control with leg symptoms — call your local emergency number (108/112 in India)
Checks
Tests a doctor may suggest
Depending on your history and examination, a doctor may suggest some of these. Your doctor decides which, if any, you need.
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Related pages
References
Sources & further reading
Frequently asked questions
Why do my feet burn at night?
Nerve-related burning often feels worse at rest and at night, when there are fewer distractions. Diabetes and low vitamin B12 are the commonest causes worth checking.
Can low vitamin B12 cause burning feet?
Yes. B12 is needed for healthy nerves, and a deficiency can cause burning, tingling or numbness in the feet. A simple blood test checks it.
Is burning feet a sign of diabetes?
It can be. Burning feet is a common early symptom of diabetic nerve damage, so a sugar test (fasting sugar or HbA1c) is a sensible first step.