Feeling a burning sensation in your feet can be distracting and stop you from fully enjoying your day. It's natural to want relief as soon as possible, so it only makes sense that home remedies are the first thing you look to when trying to find ways to ease the discomfort of your burning feet. But what exactly are some of the best home remedies for burning feet?
Burning feet may be caused by a variety of unrelated medical issues and is characterized by a feeling of heaviness and burning in the legs. You might feel heat or discomfort not only on the soles of your feet, but also on the tops, ankles, and even the lower thigh. The right treatment for burning feet is determined by the underlying cause.
Continue reading to discover more about what causes burning feelings in your feet and when you should seek medical attention.
What are the causes of burning feet?
There are a variety of conditions that can cause the sensation of burning feet. To be able to receive the right treatment, it’s important that you identify the underlying cause. Some cases of burning feet might be the result of a foot fungus like athlete's foot or shoes that are too tight, in which case it is easily treatable. However, in other cases, the cause of the burning feet might not be obvious right away.
But the most common cause of burning feet is nerve damage, which is frequently associated with diabetes. The pain from burning feet pain can be intermittent or constant, ranging from mild to severe pain. Your feet may become warm, tingly, prickly, or numb. In many cases, the pain is worse at night.
How long can the foot burn last?
The length of time that a person's feet can have a burning feeling can depend on the cause and the treatment they receive.
For instance, a case of athlete's foot may go away in a few weeks if you seek the right therapy for it. But in other cases such as if you have peripheral neuropathy, it might be more difficult to treat the burning feeling and you might therefore feel burning in your feet for a longer period of time.
7 home remedies for burning feet
If you are curious what is the best home remedy for burning feet, here our top 7 suggestions:
Epsom salts
Epsom salt is a naturally occurring source of magnesium sulfate. People typically use it while having foot baths. Your feet can benefit from being soaked in Epsom salt water for a few minutes every day. The usage of Epsom salt increases the risk of foot injury in people with diabetes. As a result, if you have diabetes, consult your doctor before using it.
Vitamin B supplements
A lack of vitamins B6, B9, and B12 can result in burning feet. These B vitamins are necessary for a healthy neurological system, which is why not getting enough B vitamins can induce nerve discomfort and burning feet.
Start taking vitamin B pills and eating more foods rich in B vitamins. Vitamin B may be found in leafy greens, fatty fish, eggs, and beef. You can always check with your doctor to see which are the right B vitamin supplements for your case of burning feet.
Turmeric
Turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory capabilities, as well as an ability to neutralize free radicals (antioxidants). This is because turmeric contains a bioactive component called curcumin. Numerous studies have demonstrated that curcumin can be useful for treating nerve and neurodegenerative illnesses, as well as for preventing their development. You can incorporate turmeric into your diet in a variety of ways. Enjoy a cup of warm and soothing turmeric tea, or season your meals with turmeric. Blend fresh or ground turmeric into your smoothies and salad dressings, or add it to grain-based dishes such as rice, quinoa, and lentils.
Ice Bath
An ice bath might help relieve the discomfort of burning feet. Allow your feet to soak in an ice bath for no more than 15 minutes. While this won’t address the underlying cause of your foot pain, this home treatment can still provide you with temporary relief from the pain. But if you have erythromelalgia, do not soak your feet in an ice bath since this may cause skin damage.
Apple cider vinegar
If you're experiencing burning feet due to a case of athlete's foot, apple cider vinegar can help. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can effectively combat the underlying bacteria and fungi causing discomfort in your feet. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove how effective it can be for treating your feet.
Orthotic inserts
Custom orthotics, or orthotic inserts, are another option for people with diabetes who have burning feet. Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that are worn inside shoes to relieve diabetic nerve discomfort. Many specialists, particularly podiatrists, may take a model of your foot and order bespoke inserts that easily fit inside your shoes. These insoles may often relieve burning feet.
Comfortable Shoes
If you have diabetes, it's crucial to prioritize comfort and support when it comes to footwear. Nerve pain and burning sensations in the feet are common issues associated with high blood sugar levels. Avoid wearing shoes such as sandals, flip-flops, and high heels, as they can exacerbate foot pain.
Instead, opt for well-fitting shoes that provide ample cushioning and support, and minimize the risk of sores or blisters. Your doctor can assist you in selecting shoes that are specifically designed to reduce foot pain and alleviate the feeling of burning in your feet, ensuring that you prioritize foot health and overall well-being.
Because the feeling of burning in your feet can produce moderate to severe discomfort, both sporadically and persistently, it’s important to consult your doctor so that you determine the underlying causes and address it sooner rather than later.
