Burning Feet Syndrome: Causes And Treatments
Grierson-Gopalan Syndrome or Burning Foot Syndrome is nighttime torture. Pain points that reach the ankles, tingling, burning as if you were walking on a surface heated with a hot iron … This deterioration can become exasperating for those who suffer from it day after day.
This condition may remind us a bit of another disorder that also appears at night and in some way greatly limits quality of life: Restless Leg Syndrome. While it is true that the two diseases have a neuropathic origin, there are small aspects that differentiate them.
We know, for example, that burning foot syndrome is more common in women. It is also a common symptom in diabetic patients. Finally, it is also a discomfort that cyclists can experience.
These are small nuances that make this syndrome a very special reality. We suggest that you discover more information about this syndrome below.
Burning feet syndrome: symptoms, causes and treatments
Burning foot syndrome can appear episodically. In other words, there will be times when this discomfort will be more intense and others when it will disappear. Despite this, there is a great deal of variability in symptoms because, while it may surprise us, there are many causes that can cause it.
Thus, it is important to note that this condition rarely appears on its own. Usually, it occurs with other problems, such as changes in the thyroid, joint pain, general weakness … But because of the discomfort and its impact on nighttime rest, it is the main reason for consultation.
Symptoms of burning feet syndrome
The main symptom is the burn. Those affected experience a burning sensation that rises from the soles of the feet to the calves. Many people even have to put their feet in cold water to rest.
The causes
Some studies like the one conducted at the Department of Neurology at the University of Münster (Germany) indicate that burning foot syndrome is an autosomal trait, that is, it is inherited. If anyone in our family suffers from it, we also run the risk of having it.
- In most cases, the origin of this syndrome is neuropathy. That is, this condition is due to an alteration of certain small nerve fibers that send pain signals to the feet. It is a condition that comes and goes and affects women more.
- Another trigger is vitamin B12 deficiency. The absence of this substance leads to problems in the nervous system. The first symptoms are tingling and burning sensation in the arms and legs.
- Another cause is metatarsalgia or compression of the metatarsal nerves in the feet. In this case, it is a common alteration among cyclists.
- Thyroid disorders. Burning foot syndrome is usually a common symptom in people with hypothyroidism.
- A lack of nutritional absorption. In case the person is suffering from intestinal problem or is suffering from alcoholism, this condition will appear.
- Diabetes mellitus. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes can affect peripheral nerves in the body, especially in the feet and legs. The origin is in the high level of glucose and in the way this changes both the transmission of signals between the nerves and the resistance of the blood vessels.
How is it diagnosed?
As we have just seen, several causes can be at the origin of the syndrome. How is the diagnosis made? How can we know what is the origin of this condition? Typically, the following diagnostic tests are performed:
- A physical exam. The doctor will explore the affected area to see if there is swelling, joint problem, allergic reaction, etc.
- A blood test. This test is needed to measure glucose levels, possible vitamin B12 deficiencies, thyroid problems, etc.
- Nerve function tests. These tests, such as an electromyogram, can also be helpful. They are used to measure the electrical activity of our muscles.
What treatments are there?
The intervention associated with burning foot syndrome will always depend on the trigger. However, there are some basic guidelines that can be helpful in many cases.
In any case, the ideal is to always benefit from an appropriate medical diagnosis. Before resorting to any remedy, consult your doctor.
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