Burning feet syndrome is a common condition and difficult to reach the bottom of and difficult to handle as it could frequently not really be obvious why you have the symptoms. The burning feet syndrome is generally described by an unusual sensation of burning and a heavy feeling occurring within the feet and legs. Historically, it was first written about by Grierson in 1826 who had been the first person to document the signs and symptoms of burning feet. A far more detailed account was recorded by by Gopalan in 1946, so for a while the burning feet syndrome have also been known as Grierson-Gopalan syndrome.

There is generally simply no specific aetiology or cause of burning feet syndrome and the cause is often idiopathic or not known. It is usually related to nutritional or endocrine causes for example a vitamin B deficiency, the painful neuropathy that comes about in type 2 diabetes, in individuals with kidney failure especially if on renal dialysis, or because of hypothyroidism. Burning feet are more prevalent in those older than 50 years however it can and does occur at any age. The symptoms are typically described by a burning discomfort, a heavy feeling, a numbness or a boring ache that occurs typically in the feet. In most cases it is just on the soles of the feet but may rise to include the dorsum of the feet, ankles or on the lower legs occasionally. The forearms and palms of the hands are typically not impacted, but when they may be, then this needs to be investigated further. At times people may complain of 'pins and needles' or prickling type of sensation in the lower limbs. Typically, the signs and symptoms tend to be worse through the night and they are relatively better throughout the day time. They're also certainly not made more painful with an increase of levels of exercise or standing which will suggest an orthopaedic disorder as opposed to the neurological involvement in burning foot syndrome. Examination of your feet and lower limbs by a physician typically sees no objective signs and symptoms. A selection of investigations, particularly blood tests are frequently carried out to look for any of the particular problems that might cause the problem.

The therapy for burning feet syndrome may either have particular measures which are aimed at the main cause (eg diabetic neuropathy, pinched nerves, thyroid disorders) and general actions which might be useful in all cases. These types of common options include the wearing of open and comfy shoes, perhaps those having arch supports, and also wearing natural cotton socks is sometimes useful. Respite from the signs and symptoms could be brought about by the immersing the feet in chillier water for about 15 minutes. It's also extremely important to steer clear of exposing your feet to sources of warmth. There are drug options which include tricyclic antidepressants and membrane stabilizing substances (for example carbamazepine and gabapentin) which can be utilized in the more serious situations. You can find side affects associated with these medicines, but they are significant at offering reduction for the signs and symptoms when it's necessary. Even with the use of drugs, the treating of the symptoms could be a troublesome and some people will should be evaluated by a expert pain facility and given strategies to help deal with the pain sensation.