What Causes Burning Sensation in Lower Legs and Feet?
August 8, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
A burning sensation in the lower legs and feet can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from mild issues to more serious medical conditions. It’s important to note that a proper diagnosis can only be made by a medical professional. Here are some potential causes of a burning sensation in the lower legs and feet:
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition involves damage to the peripheral nerves, which can lead to various sensations, including burning, tingling, and numbness. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy, but it can also result from other conditions or factors like alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medications.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels in diabetes can damage nerves over time, leading to neuropathy and a burning sensation in the legs and feet.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins like B12, B6, and folate can cause nerve damage and contribute to burning sensations.
- Nerve Entrapment: Compression or entrapment of nerves, such as the sciatic nerve, can cause pain and burning sensations in the legs and feet.
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): RLS is a neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, including burning.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow to the legs due to PAD can cause pain, discomfort, and a burning sensation.
- Venous Insufficiency: This occurs when the veins in the legs have trouble sending blood back to the heart. It can cause symptoms like swelling, pain, and a burning sensation.
- Infections: Skin infections, like athlete’s foot or cellulitis, can lead to burning sensations in the feet and lower legs.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause inflammation that affects nerves and leads to discomfort.
- Medications: Some medications can cause nerve damage or affect circulation, leading to burning sensations.
- Trauma or Injury: Injuries that affect nerves or blood vessels can result in burning sensations during the healing process.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease: This refers to conditions that affect the blood vessels outside the heart and brain, potentially leading to reduced blood flow and discomfort.
- Multiple Sclerosis: This autoimmune disorder can damage the protective covering of nerves, causing a range of neurological symptoms, including burning sensations.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can lead to nerve issues and sensations of burning.
- Toxic Exposure: Exposure to toxins or heavy metals can damage nerves and cause discomfort.
If you’re experiencing a persistent burning sensation in your lower legs and feet, it’s important to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis. They can perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and potentially order tests to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the specific cause identified.