January 9, 2023
There can be a range of discolouration in your toes. The most common is a pinkish/red hue - a sign of red toes.
Red toes may result from cold temperatures, toe injury, infection, or potential medical conditions. Red toe onset may be immediate, or red toe onset may be progressive. The redness often resolves itself, but it may sometimes present symptoms of underlying medical conditions.
Learn more about red toes and potential risks in our article below!
Why are my toes red and itchy?
Several causes result in redness in your toes. Red toes result from inflammation, injury, temperature, skin irritation, and infection. Varying degrees of redness may indicate the severity of damage to the toes. In some cases, redness may subside independently, while others may require medical attention.
What medical conditions cause red toes?
There are a variety of medical conditions that induce red toes. Red toe causes range from skin conditions to musculoskeletal damage to infection. Below, we've categorized medical conditions that cause red toes by severity. Note that all medical conditions can have varying degrees of severity, so use this list as a reference, not a diagnosis.
Lower severity
Low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are short-term causes and often subside independently. Proper attention and care are required to prevent additional damage. However, low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are more surface-level and less cause for concern.
Blisters
A blister is a small fluid-filled bubble that forms just under the outer layer of the skin. The fluid (usually a serum, rarely blood) is a natural cushion to protect the tissue underneath from friction and irritation. Fortunately, blisters often heal on their own once the source of friction is eliminated. As tempting as it may be, avoid popping the blister and allow it to heal naturally.
Frostnip
Frostnip is a mild, non-severe cold injury to the skin and tissue. As such, frostnip doesn't cause permanent damage. You can treat frostnip with basic first aid. Above all else, you should try to escape the cold as quickly as possible. Possible complications include infection and temporary nerve damage, which are rare if caught at the frostnip stage.
Stubbed toe
A stubbed toe occurs any time you jam your toe against another object. A stubbed toe is a trauma injury. The injury results from a one-time accident. Depending on the severity, damage to the toe may cause swelling and inflammation, muscle injury, and even bone fractures.
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash triggered by an allergic reaction. The skin's response to an irritant causes inflammation, followed by a rash. Contact dermatitis isn't contagious nor life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Soaps, plants, detergents, or jewelry have the potential to cause an allergic reaction.
One can treat and prevent contact dermatitis by identifying and removing environmental allergens. A doctor can also prescribe topical medications to help treat flare-ups.
Athlete's foot
Fungal skin infections are a common culprit of red toes. Athlete's foot is one such common fungal skin. Athlete's foot is a prevalent cause of the redness. The toe fungus is not life-threatening, but it is contagious and may spread elsewhere on your body or even to other people. It can also cause foot pain and difficulty walking if left untreated.
Nail infection
Paronychia is an infection of your nail folds typically caused by bacteria or a fungus and can cause toe pain and swelling, which causes redness and the appearance of red toes.
Ingrown toenail
An ingrown toenail is a nail condition that targets the toes, mainly the big toe. As the name applies, it occurs when the sides or edges of the toenail grow into the skin. As the nail pierces the skin, it can cause bleeding, redness and pain. If left untreated, the ingrown toenail can get infected.
Moderate severity
Moderate-severity causes of red toes are more severe and may be longer-lasting. Symptoms and recovery time may vary, and pain and discomfort may be more intense and significant. You may require medical assistance to determine the diagnosis and treatment method(s).
Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by heightened uric acid in the blood. Elevated uric acid levels lead to the formation of crystal deposits in the joint. The joint then becomes red, hot, swollen, and painful. The initial attack of this condition is usually sudden, with symptoms lasting for about a week. The most common joint it affects is the joint that connects your big toe to the rest of the foot. If left untreated, gout attacks may reoccur, increase in severity and lead to enduring joint damage.
Frostbite (superficial)
Superficial frostbite is a stage more severe than frostnip. Cold temperatures damage the skin and the underlying tissues in your toes. Blisters form 24-36 hours after rewarming, and you may experience pain and discomfort for several days.
Higher severity
More serious medical conditions that cause red toes may be chronic or permanent. These conditions can be irreversible and limit the motor function of your toes. Surgery may be a last-resort treatment option in severe cases.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis ("RA") is an auto-immune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation. RA causes periodic flare-ups of joint pain, stiffness and swelling, eventually making movement difficult. Although there is no cure, you can manage the condition with proactive and diligent treatment focusing on your overall health and well-being.
Diabetes
Diabetes can cause a chain reaction in your body that hinders circulation to the feet and toes. People with diabetes may experience two conditions that cause red toes: peripheral vascular disease and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Nerve damage and reduced circulation can cause an itchy or numbing pain in the toes. Diabetes can also hinder the body's ability to fight less severe conditions due to reduced immune response and blood circulation.
Frostbite (deep)
Deep frostbite is the most severe form of cold damage to the skin. Your skin or tissue may turn red and black and die altogether. You may sometimes lose muscle function and require surgery to remove part of the toe.
Bunions
A bunion is a foot condition of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Bunions occur when the big toe misaligns. The shift in bone structure causes what appears to be a bony outgrowth. The outgrowth is simply the angling of your toes. The damage to the joint causes pain and redness, and the increased volume of your toes can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Without proper footwear or orthotics, you can further aggravate your bunions.
Bunions are irreversible and have no "cure" other than surgery. However, physical therapy and accommodations, like orthotics and proper footwear, improve quality of life.
How can I prevent my toes from turning red?
Treatment and prevention for red toes depend on the severity of the underlying medical condition. Generally, low-severity medical or skin conditions are treated simply through rest and recovery. For low-severity conditions, the goal should be to focus on "How do I prevent this from getting worse?"; whereas for high-severity needs, much of the damage has been done and is irreversible. For more severe red toe conditions, the focus is more geared towards improving quality of life and implementing tools to improve mobility, like custom foot orthotics or orthopedic footwear.
We've created a treatment guideline below:
Low severity. Low-grade medical or skin red toe conditions are treatable, often at home. Treatment methods include topical creams or prescription medication, rest, recovery, taping, or changing footwear. Further prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene.
Moderate severity. Moderate severity medical or skin red toe conditions are a mix of prevention and treatment. A proper diagnosis is often required, followed by a treatment plan. Rest and recovery may be part of the treatment plan, but the recovery may be longer (weeks, not days). Like low-severity causes, prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene.
Higher severity. Severe medical or skin red toe conditions are often irreversible and have no cure. Treatment methods focus on improving motor function, mobility, and well-being through orthopedic tools and physical therapy.
January 3, 2023
The top of your foot is one of the most common areas to experience everyday foot pain. The muscles and tendons within the top side of your foot play a critical part in how you move. The top of the foot can be easily overworked and damaged, leading to various foot conditions.
Some symptoms and top-of-foot conditions are short-lived. Other top-of-foot symptoms can signal an underlying condition elsewhere in your foot or leg.
This article teaches about five potential causes (and solutions) for top-of-foot pain.
Cause 1: Foot Sprain
A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in your foot stretch beyond their limit and become damaged. Foot sprains can vary in location. An ankle sprain is likely to be more of a forefoot sprain. A midfoot sprain is more likely to affect the front half of your foot.
Cause: Acute trauma causes foot sprain. Acute trauma refers to a one-time impact of an incident where you put your foot in an awkward or uncomfortable position. Your tendons are stretched beyond their limit and lose some elasticity. Your tendons may develop micro tears or more serious strains. More severe forms of acute trauma can result in a stress fracture or a hairline break of the bone.
Solution: Foot sprains require rest and recovery to heal. Rest allows your tendons to repair themselves and regain their elasticity. Ice and elevating your legs above your body can help promote healing and may quicken the recovery process. If the injury persists, or you have difficulty moving, you should visit your family doctor.
Taping can also act as an additional support system. A chiropodist can skillfully tape your feet. Taping works by providing additional support and "locking" your feet to avoid re-aggravating the injury.
Cause 2: Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendons in the foot can cause top-of-foot pain. Damage to the tendons is known as tendonitis.
Cause: Extensor tendonitis can cause pain in the top of the foot. The extensor tendons are the tendons that run along the topside of your foot. The tendons help you straighten your feet and lift your toes. The extensor tendons play a critical role when running or walking. Chronic damage through overuse injuries can cause extensor tendonitis. Too much walking or running, or even too much of a weight-intensive activity too soon after any injury can cause extensor tendonitis.
Solution: The best course of action for tendonitis is rest. Specifically, you want to avoid the source activity that causes aggravation. If the pain is intense, you can also take over-the-counter medications and visit your family doctor. They may refer you to a massage or physiotherapist. If the tendonitis persists or is disrupting your mobility, you should visit your family doctor.
Cause 3: Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a contagious fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, sounds like it only affects sporty folks, it can affect anyone. Although not life-threatening, it's contagious and can be painful if left untreated.
Cause: A fungus called dermatophytes causes athlete's foot. The fungus inhabits, grows, and survives off the outer layer of the skin. By extension, the fungus can also spread to other parts of the body and people, either directly or indirectly.
You can catch athlete's foot anywhere where fungus thrives. Fungi love warm, moist environments, such as communal showers, locker rooms and the decks around public swimming pools.
Solution: Over-the-counter topical antifungals are the most common remedy for mild cases of athlete's foot in the early stages. However, fungal infections are notoriously persistent and stubborn. If your Athlete's foot persists, you should see a chiropodist, who can treat the skin on your feet and prescribe prescription anti-fungal creams. Our Toronto foot clinic also sells foot deodorants, including an antifungal foot spray, which are great for prevention and supplementing your athlete's foot treatment.
While treating your athlete's foot infection, it's essential to do the following:
Clean your socks and linens with bleach or hot water. The fungus can spread from your feet to these surfaces and re-infect you if not cleaned between uses.
Clean any surfaces that your bare feet come into contact with
Wash your feet once or more a day
Ensure your feet are thoroughly dry after bathing or washing.
Wear flip-flops or shoes in any place where you think you could catch athlete's foot
Cause 4: Bone bruise
Damage to the bone itself can be painful and cause top-of-foot pain. There are varying degrees of bone damage, ranging from bruises to fractures.
Cause: A bone bruise is an acute injury, less severe than a fracture. Bone bruises typically stem from a one-time event that causes damage to the foot. Dropping an object, rolling your ankle, or stubbing your foot on an object can cause damage to the bone itself. You may notice bruising (reddish/blueish) on the skin. When in doubt, an X-ray can determine the severity of a bone bruise.
Solution: Treatment for a bone bruise includes the following:
Rest
Icing
Elevating your leg so it's above your heart (to promote blood flow and reduce swelling)
Taking anti-inflammatories or over-the-counter medications if the pain is intense
Cause 5: Peroneal nerve injury
Nerve damage can cause top-of-foot pain. The general term for nerve damage is known as peripheral neuropathy. When nerves are damaged, signals between your muscles and brain are disrupted, causing numbness, pain, and complete loss of sensation.
Cause: Injury to the peroneal nerve, known as peroneal nerve dysfunction, can cause top-of-foot pain. The peroneal nerve is outside our lower leg and just below the knee.
For example, you may experience temporary numbness in your feet from peroneal nerve compression. Have your legs crossed, and your feet and toes go numb? Peroneal nerve compression causes the numbing and tingling sensation.
There are several symptoms of peroneal nerve dysfunction. Signs can include:
Foot drop
Pain, weakness, or numbness on the top of the foot
Inability to move the toes up and down
Reduced mobility in the foot
Abnormal knee lift to compensate for reduced motor function
Solution: You should visit your family doctor at the first sign of any nerve-related symptoms. They will conduct the necessary diagnostic investigations and refer you to the appropriate doctors. There are both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for peroneal nerve injury.
Non-invasive treatments include orthotics, which can correct your gait and better distribute pressure within your feet. Additionally, physical therapy and foot-strengthening exercises to fortify the muscles in your feet can help improve mobility. If you have foot drop, an ankle-foot orthotic may be recommended.
You may require surgical treatment for more severe cases, including decompression surgery or nerve repair.
Other causes of top-of-foot pain
Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve inside one of the tunnels within your ankle compresses. Specifically, the posterior tibial nerve (within the tarsal tunnel) is compressed from injury, flat feet, or fallen arches.
Bone spurs: Hallux rigidus, or arthritis of the big toe joint can cause bone spurs, which can lead to pain on the top of the foot. The bony outgrowths can put pressure on your foot or toe when wearing shoes and cause pain when lifting your toes due to the deteriorated joint.
Ganglions: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled bumps on the tendons or joints in the feet. The cyst itself doesn't cause pain, but if large enough, it can add pressure to the nerves in the same vicinity.
December 1, 2022
Winter has graced our presence again, and while we're all bearing it (or enjoying it!), many forget precautions that keep our feet comfortable, clean, warm and dry. But worry not; with a reliable winter foot care routine, you can get through the chilly season without risking the most common foot conditions.
Here are some steps to create the perfect winter foot care routine. Be sure to follow it as often as possible for the best results!
Find the best winter shoes
Create a workout routine
Keep your feet clean
Master your skincare routine
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 1: Find The Best Winter Shoes
The first step in your winter feet treatment journey is securing the best winter walking shoes that accommodate your needs.
In the wintertime, the best walking shoes will generally be boots since you will want to keep your feet toasty warm. That said, brands like Saucony and ASICS make solid winter running shoes for snowy trails, roads and paved sidewalks.
If you spend a lot of time walking and need extra support, you can opt for winter boots with a removable footbed for your insoles or orthotics. Supportive winter boots should also have sufficient arch support and shock-absorbing heels.
Suppose snowy conditions are your concern. If so, select boots made with waterproof material, like GORE-TEX. You should also ensure your winter boots have a good amount of traction to prevent slipping. And lastly, try snug boots with faux fur shearling cuffs and insulating features to keep warm. Failing to shield your feet from the cold can put you at risk of chilblains (painful inflammation of the tiny blood vessels in the feet).
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 2: Create A Workout Routine
Did you know cold temperatures can affect blood circulation, causing foot pain?
Foot care isn't just about buying high-quality shoes and calling it a day. Sometimes it's about putting in some strenuous effort that, in the long run, can protect you from discomfort and pain. After all, your feet hold you up daily, so they should be as strong as possible.
That's where foot stretches and exercises enter the picture!
Incorporating your foot exercises into your general morning routine is a great habit. First, a lot of people get their day started by working out. Second, certain foot conditions like plantar fasciitis can feel worse in the morning, so attentive care can prep your foot muscles for starting your day.
Try curating your workout by mixing and matching these great stretches and exercises:
Toe Flex and Raise
Calf Stretch on a Stair
Forward Leg Swings
Ankle Circles
Banded Leg Exercise
Wall Squats
Leg Raises
Cat / Cow Stretch
Toe Curls
Golf Ball Stretch
Bonus: The exciting news is that some of these stretches are multi-purposeful! Many can also help alleviate back pain, help with hip mobility, stretch your calf muscles, and more!
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 3: Keep Your Feet Clean
Many assume shielding our feet in winter boots is enough to protect them from harm. But it would be unwise to think this way. When your feet sweat in warm boots for long hours, they're begging for a hygiene routine, so vigilance is key.
Keeping your feet clean will prevent skin irritation, calluses, cracks, fungal infections, athlete's foot, and more! And don't forget, you have to keep them dry as well.
If you follow this simple routine, you should be in the clear:
Wash your feet daily in warm water and mild, skin-friendly soap.
Be sure to dry thoroughly and even dust with foot powder. Gehwol's Foot Powder, in particular, protects your feet from excessive perspiration and can prevent foot odour.
Thoroughly dry in between the toes.
Change your socks frequently.
Try moisture-wicking socks for added protection.
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 4: Master Your Skincare Routine
Is there ever a time of year when skin care is more critical? With heat blasting in communal spaces and unpredictable precipitation catching us off guard, your feet need extra TLC when it's cold outside.
Try Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care to tackle any pre-existing skin conditions, like cracked heels and dry skin, right off the bat.
But preventing skin conditions by moisturizing is equally important. Try moisturizers with ingredients like glycerin, propylene glycol, urea and lanolin, all of which work by locking in pre-existing moisture. Many Gehwol foot creams include these ingredients, so you can select the one that appeals most to you.
As for when you should moisturize, the best time is after showering or bathing when your feet are already clean and dry. Apply your moisturizer evenly across the entire foot, avoiding build-up between the toes. You can moisturize before bed if you like, but slip on some socks to avoid getting it on your sheets.
Other skincare tips include:
Avoid long, hot showers and baths, as they can dry out your skin. Try a lukewarm temperature instead, or reduce the amount of time you spend in there.
Get a humidifier for your space.
Drink more water.
Exfoliate your feet with homemade scrubs or medicinal foot scrubs from Gehwol. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and removes debris that lies deep within your pores.
September 12, 2022
We've all heard the term cold feet to describe last-minute nerves. But cold and sweaty feet are a whole other ballgame.
Cold and sweaty feet can signal a common problem you can work on. Alternatively, they may indicate a more troubling medical condition that needs your attention. The most important thing to do is visit your family doctor or foot specialist when the problem becomes recurring.
Let's take a look at some causes of cold and sweaty feet, and what you can do about them.
Causes of Cold and Sweaty Feet
Hyperhidrosis
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Menopause
Overactive thyroid
Raynaud's disease
Hyperhidrosis
This is essentially a term for excessive sweating, which can simultaneously cause cold feet. Many people clue into this condition if they experience sweaty feet without exercising or being in the heat.
Primary focal (essential) hyperhidrosis is the most common form and isn't a sign of an underlying medical condition. It occurs when the nerves in your body send too many signals to sweat glands. While embarrassing at times, it is certainly manageable. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is always associated with another medical condition.
Treatment
Foot deodorants, creams and sprays.
Antidepressants can lower triggers like stress and anxiety, which cause you to sweat more.
Nerve-blocking medications.
Daily foot hygiene practices: keeping feet clean and dry, regularly changing socks, etc.
Airing out your feet.
Breathable footwear.
Moisture-wicking socks.
Regular foot assessments to check for conditions that thrive in moist environments, like athlete's foot.
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
PAD is a serious condition that affects the body's lower extremities. Due to fatty plaque buildup, the blood vessels that transport between the heart and the legs become totally blocked or severely narrowed. Risk factors may include diabetes, being over 60 years of age and having high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Treatment
Medications called statins, which lower cholesterol.
Blood pressure medications.
Medications that increase blood flow in the legs.
Living a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Menopause
One of the most common culprits of cold and sweaty feet in older women is menopause. Due to hormonal imbalances, blood vessels expand and increase the level of blood flow in the body during this point in a woman's life, triggering night sweats. But hormonal changes can also slow blood circulation, quickly affecting the feet. Cold, sweaty feet can also contribute to insomnia in menopausal women.
Treatment
Estrogen therapy
Antidepressants
Eating a healthy diet low in sugar and salt.
Low-intensity exercise.
Monitoring stress levels.
Getting enough vitamin D.
Regular foot assessments to check for other symptoms, like foot swelling.
Overactive Thyroid
A thyroid disorder can cause plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat) while also deregulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid also messes with our blood circulation, giving the feet and skin only a quarter of the blood supply they usually need. You should inquire with your family doctor about a thyroid condition if your feet are always cold and you've ruled out other causes.
Treatment
Medications called thionamides.
Surgical intervention.
The thyroid gland, courtesy of the National Cancer Institute
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease causes both cold hands and feet, as well as numb toes. Furthermore, Raynaud's can occur in its primary form or as an accompaniment to another disease, like lupus or Rheumatoid arthritis. Like many other cold feet causes, it decreases blood flow in certain body parts. This is due to blood vessels spasming in the affected areas.
Treatment
Calcium channel blockers can open the small blood vessels in the feet.
Wearing socks indoors.
Vasodilators, which relax blood vessels.
Severe cases may require surgery.
Additional Causes of Cold and Sweaty Feet
Anxiety disorders: Known to cause hyperhidrosis, severe stress and panic disorders can make you feel clammy and uncomfortable.
Exercise: An obvious cause of sweaty feet is regular physical activity. It's essential to keep on top of routine foot care if fitness is causing your sweaty feet.
Wearing small shoes: Sometimes sweat can't evaporate if our shoes don't fit properly.
Neuropathy: Nerve damage, common in diabetes patients, is known to cause excessive sweating and can disrupt regular body temperature
August 22, 2022
Don't be embarrassed if you have sweaty and funky feet --- you may just need a foot deodorant.
The moisture trapped in your shoes can cause some incredibly common issues, like hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), odour and irritation. Let's look at everything there is to know about foot deodorant!
What Is Foot Deodorant?
Foot deodorant is just like your standard underarm deodorant or antiperspirant - but for your feet! Your feet can get as sweaty and stinky as your underarms do. It can often come in good use, and many people can benefit from trying a good foot deodorant product.
What Does Foot Deodorant Do?
Natural deodorants target hyperhidrosis, keeping your feet feeling fresh for long periods.
Foot sprays and deodorants are a critical component of foot hygiene. Practicing regular foot care prevents a wide array of foot conditions.
Deodorants fight stinky feet by eliminating odorous bacteria.
Some foot deodorants act as a barrier between your feet and shoes. This can help prevent blisters.
Types of Foot Deodorants
The active ingredients in natural foot deodorants are responsible for their amazing capabilities. There are many different types for specific purposes and uses.
Each type works to neutralize foot odour and block sweat glands, from sprays to creams to powders. Deodorant creams usually include an additional moisturizing effect. With foot sprays, you can also use them on your footwear and socks, and they often come with preventative anti-fungal properties. Powders are perhaps the best option for absorbing excessive, pre-existing moisture.
GEHWOL Foot Deodorant Products
Foot Powder
Foot and Shoe Deodorant Spray
Deodorant Foot Cream
Foot Powder
This foot deodorant absorbs sweat without leaving a clumpy powder mess behind. Simply dust the powder formula onto your feet or socks for extra moisture control.
The bisabolol in this deodorant has a calming effect on the skin and reduces redness and irritation. The tapioca starch is responsible for absorbing moisture, and the zinc oxide has antimicrobial properties that prevent foot infections like athlete's foot and toenail fungus. Talcum protects the skin and absorbs moisture, and it's also frequently used in baby powder products. Many people use talcum powder as an odour-prevention alternative to antiperspirant.
Foot Spray and Shoe Deodorant
A crucial part of maintaining foot hygiene is fighting foot odour. The zinc ricinoleate in Gehwol's foot spray and shoe deodorant prevents that odorous foot smell from festering in your shoes all day. You can apply this deodorant spray on your footwear and socks, making it an excellent choice for athletes and people on the go.
In addition to the typical foot deodorant properties, this product also anti-fungal properties. You can spray it on your feet and footwear in contagious public spaces like saunas, shoe stores and public pools.
Note: This product is not a substitute for a prescription anti-fungal for an active fungal infection. Rather, you should use it for prevention, especially for athletes and those prone to sweaty feet and foot fungus (which can often be a chronic condition).
Deodorant Foot Cream
This cream has added moisturizing benefits due to the manuca oil, jojoba oil and aloe vera components. Gehwol's deodorizing foot cream also has a pleasant scent that doesn't overwhelm your senses. The zinc oxide and manuca extract keep pungent foot odour at bay for up to 24 hours. The zinc oxide also protects sensitive skin and prevents itchiness while ensuring a silky smooth feel.
August 15, 2022
Have you ever experienced a burning sensation in your feet? Your feet may feel hot for no reason or tingle and become uncomfortable, especially at night. While hot feet syndrome is highly painful, it is extremely common and can affect anyone for several reasons. If you experience a burning sensation in your feet, learn about the cause and potential treatments for burning feet below.
Nerve damage
Also known as neuropathy, nerve damage occurs when the sensitive nerves of the feet are injured. This is usually caused by disease. Nerve fibers can become overactive, misfiring and sending mixed messages to the brain. Sometimes they may send pain signals, while other times, they may send feelings of tingling, heat, or numbness. These sensations may be manageable with only slight discomfort, or they may be completely debilitating.
The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes. Alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiency, kidney disease, and the side effects of some medications can also cause nerve damage. The nerves of the legs are often affected as well, causing pain and numbness to radiate down the lower legs and into the feet and toes.
Infection
Another common cause of burning feet is infection. Certain types of infection can cause hot feet. When the feet become inflamed, they can feel hot and uncomfortable. The skin of the feet may feel as though it is tingling and burning, and if not promptly treated, some infections may spread up the leg.
Blisters and cuts that become infected may cause burning feet. Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, can also cause pain and discomfort.
Other Causes of Burning Feet
Other possible causes of burning feet include:
Inflammatory Arthritis: Sometimes, arthritic pain can cause a burning sensation in the affected joints. This from excess inflammation buildup, is most often seen with inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout and psoriatic arthritis. Treating the underlying arthritis can ease or make the burning sensation go away.
Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis is your skin’s allergic reaction to a certain chemical or substance. It is associated with an itchy red rash. Sometimes, the rash can also feel like it's burning. Contact dermatitis is caused by allergens and skin irritants. Often, identifying and removing the allergen/irritant can resolve the reaction.
Symptoms of burning feet
The symptoms you experience will depend on the cause of your condition. Some common complaints include:
Feet that feel warm or hot.
A burning sensation in the feet.
Burning feet at night.
Numbness or loss of sensation.
Prickling or tingling sensation.
Increased sensation to the touch (hyperesthesia).
Impaired blood flow to the feet.
Swelling.
Itching.
Difficulty walking.
How are burning feet diagnosed?
Depending on your overall health, your health care provider may use a few different methods to determine the cause of your burning feet. If you have been previously diagnosed with diabetes, this is the likely cause of your neuropathy, and no further testing will often be required. However, if diabetes isn't the culprit, your doctor may order a blood test, a nerve biopsy, a nerve conduction study, or an electromyography test. These tests will help determine the exact cause of your hot feet and allow your doctor to provide you with the best treatment solution.
Treatment for burning feet
The treatment for your burning feet will depend on what's causing it in the first place. If your hot feet are the result of an infection, treating the infection should eliminate all symptoms. If you are suffering from a vitamin deficiency, such as a lack of B12, taking supplements of this nutrient will help. If you have neuropathy, the best option is to slow down any further progression of the disease and help minimize the severity of the symptoms.
Keeping your blood sugar levels stable and ensuring you take all prescribed diabetic medications will help keep your nerve fibers healthy. Minimizing alcohol consumption and following a healthy and nutritious diet can also help. On top of this, numerous prescription and over-the-counter medications can reduce your discomfort, help you manage your pain, and improve the quality of your life.
