I'm 50 years old and I suffer from Burning Feet Syndrome; can you help?
Burning feet syndrome usually occurs in people 50 years plus. Symptoms include excessive sweating and a burning and aching sensation in the feet. Symptoms are usually worse at night. The burning sensation may be accompanied by pins and needles. This syndrome can be inherited. Other causes include: long term alcohol abuse, ill fitting shoes, nerve damage to the feet, liver failure, kidney failure, fungal infections, thyroid problems, advanced complications of diabetes and circulation or blood disorders.

Your GP will rule out serious problems by doing tests such as X-rays, MRI and blood tests. Treatment will involve resolving underlying causes, such as proper fitting shoes with arch supports or wearing comfortable open sandals.

A visit to a chiropodist may also help. Reduce, or eliminate alcohol consumption and smoking. Lack of vitamin B is linked to the condition, so invest in a good multivitamin-mineral supplement and include adequate amounts of digestive enzymes in your diet.

If the problem is caused by a fungal infection, use topical herbal antifungal creams and go on an anti Candida diet with appropriate supplements, until symptoms have cleared up. Soaking the feet in Citricidal (grapefruit seed extract) may help.

Acupuncture is an excellent therapy, especially if there is nerve damage or more serious health problems. Reflexology is also a very safe and effective therapy. Herbal baths and creams may alleviate symptoms, although, if the heat is very bad in the middle of the night, running cold water over the feet may provide relief.

Eating plenty of spices, such as coriander, cumin and fennel, is recommended by naturopaths.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions.

If you would like a topic covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804. Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners.

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment