Burning in feet at night, after eating,... - Neuropathy Support

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Burning in feet at night, after eating, and after walking. Only 23, and don't know what to do?

sillyrabbit profile image
106 Replies

HI,

I'm a 23 year old male. I'm not as fit as I could be, but I participate in various sports totalling about 4 hours of vigorous exercise a week. I eat a fairly healthy diet, somewhere between ultra healthy and 24/7 Mcdonalds. I'm at the lower end of a healthy weight, but have a decent quantity of muscle on me.

About a year ago, I suddenly developed extreme burning pain in my feet at night. It kept me awake, and after a while, I went to the doctors, and have been cycling a series of medications since. I was referred to a neurologist, who has taken blood tests, but I am unlikely to see him again for a few months.

My Gp has taken tens of blood tests, including the obvious b vitamins, blood sugar, thyroid, and likely a host of other things. All were apparently as perfect as they can be.

It's really damaging my life. If I walk more than a mile, try to sleep, or eat a meal, I spend several hours with intense burning in my feet, and when it really gets bad, in my hands and lower legs. All the medications I've tried floor me. I'm naturally fairly low energy, and anything with depressant properties slows me to a crawl. It seems everything for neuropathy has said properties.

I have other problems that may be related, but at the moment I'm purely curious as to whether anyone has experienced similar problems(especially the burning after eating, since that seems to be unusual), and what they were eventually diagnosed with, or medications that may have helped them?

I'm only just 23, and this is affecting my career and social life. I have the choice between being sedated on medication, or sedated from lack of sleep and poor sleep due to the burning. What's Happening!

The burning occurs after almost any larger meal; the ingredients seem to be irrelevant.

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sillyrabbit
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106 Replies
CNAadmin profile image
CNAadmin

Hi SillyRabbit:

I just have a few questions.

1. What meal sets you off and is it your largest meal of the day?

2. When you have this meal that sets you off, just before the pain starts, do you become very lethargic?

3. Have you every had an EMG (electromyogram ) or nerve conduction test? This is a test where they place little wires on your legs, feet, hands and forearms. Then they deliver electrical current through the wires to your body to measure the amount of damage done to the nerves. It sound painful, but it is not.

4. What is your A1C numbers.

The numbers should be as follows:

- Normal - 6 or less

- Your goal should be less than 7

- Take Action7 or more or if it is below 4 also take immediate action.

5. Have you asked for advice from a Naturopathic Doctor?

Answeres to these questions may help others in responding to your questions.

Yours,

CNA

yikes3 profile image
yikes3 in reply to CNAadmin

You didn't think that an EMG was painful? Wow, I was close to tears. I dread it every 3 months. lol.. Not that I want to scare anyone but I have to put my experience in here keeping it real too.

Snowbunny profile image
Snowbunny

Hi,

My PN started in October. I'm working out how much gabapentin i can live with verses the burning. 900mg a day left me feeling like I was in 2nd gear. .. i went down to 300mgs a day and am building it up. The main issue for me is not my feet at the moment but the pain in the joints of my hands that has started.. no one can say whether it is a side effect or something else entirely. All my blood test results came back clear too.. and im waiting to have the nerve conduction tests... i also wonder what the future will be... as this is getting slightly worse month by month! I have no idea why I have peripheral neuropathy!

Hope you too get some help and answers. .. keep fighting your corner :0)

yikes3 profile image
yikes3 in reply to Snowbunny

You need to see a rheumatologist. No question about it. I hope by now someone referred you to a good one. I believe that you may have heard about RA, there are so many different kinds of RA that none of us could begin to even guess what kind or if in fact you do have it. You are describing major symptoms. You may get your energy back yet. There is hope. Talk with your doctor. Psoriasroc arthritis is exactly what it sounds like.

eddymo profile image
eddymo

snowbunny hi I have peripheral neuropathy too. Mine is from alcohol. can't drink a oz.

If I do my feet turn to fire for a week. I find there is a cycle to this horrible illness. I had it for three years and I find that some times I don't my meds which is gabapentin 1200

mg. 3x daily, but I find it effects my legs when walking. They are weak and I find myself winded going up small grades. Other times I need them daily. Winter seems worse cas

my body doesn't regulate heat to cold to heat well. If you find a cure /help, let everyone know

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to eddymo

You could have B1 deficiency which may not show up on tests. Google beri beri.

Stop the alcohol it will injure your gut anyway.

I had peripheral neuropathy for about two years and I tried regular thiamine 250mg/day to no avail.

But the Japanese product Alithiamin A50 reversed it in about 3 months.

Jim7bo profile image
Jim7bo in reply to SoMuchBetter

Alithiamin A50

That's a new one for me

Nothing really works for my peripheral sensory neuropathy

Is this readily available

I like so many others at Wits end

Keep well

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to Jim7bo

Depends where you are. You can order online from various sites, but I found it locally in a Japanese grocery/personal care shop.

It was a bit pricey, so I am considering a more affordable American product with a similar action, for long term use, called Benfotiamine. Its also a more active form of thiamine.

If you want fast results, I would switch to a nutrient dense version of a moderate carb diet like the crossfit recommended zone diet. And add in in a thiamine supplement like benfotiamine.

If you want to really hit the nail on the head, start with a low carb keto diet for a few monyths and stick with the Alithiamin A50, which is purpose built to deal with restoring neurological function. Then transition to the more liberal zone diet.

If low B12 is an issue, you have to get that up, (use hydroxocobalamin B12 and 5mg lithium orotate daily which can help to transport the B12)

Finally, folic acid interferes with folate metabolism. Avoid commercial baked goods which are fortified with folic acid and add Asian leafy greens instead,

B vitamins wprk best synergistically so use a multi B supplement with no folic acid but with methylfolate or folinic acid to optimize your methylation cycle and help with rebuilding your damaged nerves.

Hope that helps you feel better soon!

Jim7bo profile image
Jim7bo in reply to SoMuchBetter

Thanks you have done your research

Will try things

jimister profile image
jimister

Hi, I know your post was a long time ago but i have the same symptoms. No one can tell me what is wrong had so many tests nothing shows up. Have you managed to get a diagnosis as like you this is really getting me down

Kimberly_ profile image
Kimberly_ in reply to jimister

Did you ever find the cause? I'm going through the exact same thing.

jimister profile image
jimister in reply to Kimberly_

Hello. Yes i had a test last year and i was told i have small nerve fibre neuropathy. No one can tell me why, but i believe it is damage caused by my high intake of sugary foods over the years. I don't eat any refined sugar now but still it carbs as i am under weight and can't eat much fat. I actually went about 8 months when the pain improved a lot so i started eating more to try and gain weight. Unfortunately the pain has come back just as bad. Get some tests done like B12, Coeliac, Diabetes and there are many other more unusual conditions that can cause this. Good luck this condition is truly miserable to live with.😢

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to jimister

Hi,

Had similar sweet tooth - caused B1 deficiency. Alithiamin A50 fixed it quickly.

sunyday-anyday profile image
sunyday-anyday in reply to jimister

It sound u must go find a practitioner who treat you for chronic methylation issues. a simple test called MTHFR can solve the problem. Personally I found out this methylation reactions is a gene mutation due to chemical inmbalances all related to food, minerals, oxigen, or vitamins inbalances in our bodies. Regular multivitamins intake didn’t help me at all!!! Only after years of mizerabile tests, piles of money, this simple methylation test figured out my burning painful thighs, feet and hands. It also helped with my downspiral nasty depresion...Sunlight and deepbreathing is a must, even if you dread it, just do it. Plant a garden, get it going, move, keep moving your body, shake the “inner rust” out, huh.... TV, sitting around, or drive to take-out won’t fix it.Wish ing kindly the Best to all of you. Let me know how it goes. 🙏🤞

machoman1955 profile image
machoman1955

i have recently (february 2016) developed similar neuropathy symptoms: mostly toes and feet, some ankles, some hands and wrist when i wake up in morning. my feet and toes turn beet red and burn during first pee in morning while i am standing trying to wake up. later in the day seems more normal (less burn and less red). i thought it might be diabetes but blood tests for diabetes were negative (no diabetes). a few days before blood tests i tried to reduce or eliminate sugars and refined carbs (no cereal or juice for breakfast, etc) and i noticed a significant (not complete) improvement (reduced burning and redness). vegetables and beans seems to be the best diet but can get boring after a few days. occasionally, i lose control and have a piece of cake, cookie, bagel, bread, etc and burning / redness comes back to feet. brief exercise (3 x 30 deep knee bends) seems to reduce burning feet if i am not wearing shoes or on a hard surface. standing in shoes on hard surface is the worst. feet start burning and feels like i am going to pass out. walking or sitting seems to help reduce burning feet until i can take my shoes off. i am also wondering if use of marijuana could cause this neuropathy or help to relieve it? wine or beer seems to be a temporary relief but burning feet comes back stronger a few hours later. i was in shock when i first (feb 2016) noticed my burning feet and told the nurse that i thought i was going to die (i could barely walk). she told me not to worry because everyone is going to die. i did not die and just getting used to it, or it seems to be slowly improving if i dont eat sugars or carbs. i am supposed to make appointment with neurologist and will post if i get any useful information.

Kimberly_ profile image
Kimberly_ in reply to machoman1955

Exactly! Did you find the cause of this?

machoman1955 profile image
machoman1955 in reply to Kimberly_

i forgot i made this post 2 years ago and found it again by accident because my burning feet seem to be coming back if i am not real strict about my diet. cut way down on sugar even though i am not diabetic. but i have always had a sweet tooth and probably had high blood sugar and did not know it when i was younger. i also had some kidney damage (minor?) many years ago (from drinking too much alcohol?). plus i was a big marijuana fan, but not a big user since i had to work for many years and recently retired. but had to cut weed to almost zero because i was afraid the weed was somehow involved with burning feet. anyway i could go on but i think sugar was the main problem. just cut sugar and refined carbs (white flour) down as much as possible seemed to be the best (not total) solution. plus i love to do long walks (4 hours) to burn blood glucose also helps me to sleep. this is not a total solution, takes discipline, plus i just think i eventually get used to minor burning feet. but after a while i forget the sugar discipline and my feet start to burn again. of course everyone is different but hope this helps.

Kim_ profile image
Kim_ in reply to machoman1955

Insulin resistance

Hopinggh profile image
Hopinggh in reply to machoman1955

Thank you for your post.

I feel any information we can all gather from others experience with pn can help alot.

I have pn many years and remember feeling at times, in the beginning, that the pain seemed to get worse as i was eating. I used to go to a buffett once a week for years and had three desserts on top of three dishes. I ate ok rest of week, except for a double/triple yogurt ice cream every night. I stopped snacking on daily pretzels recently.

Checked my a1c , 5.6 a few weeks ago. Stopped ice cream a few days and felt healthier, stronger, but went back on it.

Because of your post, i will try to cut the carbs again. This was my suspicion, the culprit.

Sugars could have been eating away at my nerves for years.

(My mother had two leg amputations...diabetes and nursing home for five years...i should know better. She was addicted to high amounts of food and high amounts of sugar foods and we were raised that way paving the way for further food addiction)

I am not making excuses. I just need discipline.

I am in pain and exhaustion.

Thank you so much !

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year !

I wish you luck and success !

Hopinggh

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to Hopinggh

Sugar causes B1 deficiency (beri beri) Try a strict keto diet to kill sugar cravings and supplement with Alithiamin A50 to replenish B1 and reverse PN!

Hopinggh profile image
Hopinggh in reply to SoMuchBetter

Hi there ! Thank you. I havent been on here that much and just now read your post.

I hope you are doing alright, considering we all have some ailment on here.

I had started keto bec my relative gained weight and lost it fast on keto. I tried it several weeks and im just starting to cheat on it. It gets boring. Anyway, my feet and legs burn ever more it seems. Nothing seems to change that. I eat keto zero net carb bread and enlightened ice cream at one net carb. No fruits . No other sugars when iwas on it. I just started having a banana and blueberries and smart carb ice cream that has 4 net carbs , mainly bec it has more value. The other ice cream is tiny .

Even if im cheating a little, im glad to have cut down on sugars., carbs .

Take care.

Hopinggh

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to machoman1955

Funny how forgetful we are! I also fell off the rails and found this thread again by accident! If you are having this burning feet problem you don't cut down sugar you need to elminate it and replace it with low glycemic complex carbs.

Try searching youtube for "barry sears zone diet". and get the book "A week in the zone." It's not low carb or high carb but moderate carb - in the middle!

It will help with sugar cravings

sitlos1971 profile image
sitlos1971

I completely understand what you're going through and I really hope this helps you. I finally found a cure after three very difficult years living with this. I had exact same symptoms described by many here - burning/achy feet (especially at night), burning moved to hands with sensation of feeling "full" or numb. I went to every type of doctor and had every type of test imaginable. Nobody could find anything wrong. Then as a last resort I went to a Naturopath. She told me to stop eating sugar and gluten as well as any artificial sweeteners found in diet pop products, some yogurts, etc. It took about 5 or 6 weeks but soon all my symptoms started disappearing. (I had already stopped alcohol on my own because when I drank I got SO sick - headache and bad burning). It's been 7 years and if I keep my diet in check - my symptoms are fine. I can actually eat a small amount of gluten and sugar from time to time (VERY occasionally) and I'm ok. Every once in a while my feet will burn at night even if I eat well but I've learned that I probably will never know why but that it's very manageable if it's this infrequent. I am 95% pain free (and it was so bad at one point I considered suicide). I hope that this helps anyone reading this because I know how terrible it is.

I also found that smoking makes the symptoms come back pretty badly so I'd stay away from that too.

alabamagirl43 profile image
alabamagirl43 in reply to sitlos1971

Ty so much. I'm wondering if my smoking is contributing to my fire feet. Imma try no sugars and no smoking and see. Glad u r better

Whizkid profile image
Whizkid

Hi,

This symptom is called peripheral neuropathy. Meaning your peripheral nerves in feet are damaged. The symptom aggravates when you have carbohydrate rich/sugary food items.

Even though there is no quick remedy for this issue but there are control measures to improve health condition. They are

1. Plan and prefer eating low carbohydrate foods

2. Avoid Sugary food items

3. Keep watch of total calories intake per/day. Lesser the calories, better the health.

4. Have sound sleep

5. Drink plenty of water

All the best

Whizkid

Jim7bo profile image
Jim7bo in reply to Whizkid

Nice advice hope it works

Charlie_22 profile image
Charlie_22

Had similar symptoms. Worse when I drank alcohol and any unknown foods always triggered it. Went to several doctors but all didn't help until I went for a Thai massage. Was advised to put my toes against the wall at 45 degrees and push upper body towards the wall. She explained the cause but can't clearly remember. stretching the muscles/tendons greatly helped. I just do that everytime the feet start burning and it helps.

alabamagirl43 profile image
alabamagirl43

I to suffer to the point I stay crying with pain. Sometimes even the bed sheet hurts. I've tried pills creams and nothing helps. Please let me know if u find anything helpful

Westi profile image
Westi in reply to alabamagirl43

Have you had your uric acid checked. Sounds like you may have gout.

tredye profile image
tredye

I have the same thing after I eat my feet burn!

A_renne profile image
A_renne in reply to tredye

My feet have also been burning for 7 years now it's very painful I have had other health issues I had Lyme disease but I also just found out that I'm allergic to tomatoes which is a nightshade food and after I eat it my feet burn they also burn after every meal so I'm not sure but maybe there's just a lot of inflammation in there from eating a food for years I did t know I was allergic too so not sure if that's what causes yours but it wouldn't hurt to get allergy tested

ahelton profile image
ahelton

Has anyone ever figured out the cause of this? I have had this for over a year. It's Just getting worse, my feet also sometimes get red at the soles when this happens. I also have burning at night almost every night here recently. I have had my b12 checked, it's 500, Which is normal but I'm still taking b12 vitamins anyways. I'm waiting on my bmp results, I see the doc again next week. My blood glucose was 116 last week when checked and that was without fasting. So diabetes is not suspected.

mlynne profile image
mlynne in reply to ahelton

I have the same thing. I assumed it (like so much else) was due to my narclepsy. I also have restless leg which i thought wasn't that bothersome unless it's the restleass leg causing it. I can't find any real link online with any of my conditions...

chemdaddy profile image
chemdaddy in reply to ahelton

I suffered with hot sweaty feet for almost 20 years. It also started in my twenties. Doctors, medicines, ointment did not help. My feet were so hot after eating, that I could not wear shoes. I am a professional and expected to wear dress shoes. I had to change my socks a couple of times a day, because my feet would become so sweaty. Eventually, I started wearing sandals, even in the winter. Three years ago I cut bread, cereal and REFINED SUGAR from my diet. And, in six months, it went . . . almost . . . completely away. I still occasionally eat breads and pasta now. Wheat from certain breads, especially from restaurants will cause my feet to get a little warm. However, I have been replacing my silver fillings and the symptoms are almost zero now. It may be a methylation issue (MTHFR), but I have not done enough testing to be certain. My experience with doctors has not been positive. I don't get sick anymore and my allergies have gone away, so I have been to a medical doctor in over three years. I strongly recommend methylated B vitamins if you are not already doing so.

Truthrocksatx profile image
Truthrocksatx in reply to chemdaddy

Thanks - think you are right.

jimister profile image
jimister

Has anyone experienced their feet burn more when they take vitamin b12.

CaraCara profile image
CaraCara in reply to jimister

Ha-Ha found someone who has my issue. Everytime I take B12 my feet get worse. So no more B12 for me except in food eg. Vegemite.

Awesomeness profile image
Awesomeness

Hello I am just 25 yrs old male me too have same symptoms my feets also seems burning sensation and little bit swetting it occurs when I wear shoes r any kind foot ware and main thing that I have observed that my feet burging sensation occurs when I take lemon foods or items and also sweets what to do with this pls suggest me ....

A_renne profile image
A_renne

Really late replying to this but just seen this post , I am not a doctor but if all blood test for diabetes , Lyme diease etc are negative you should look into food allergies being allergic to some foods can cause burning pain so an allergy doctor may be able to help, hope this helps :)

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to A_renne

About six months ago my toes started burning and feeling numb. I went to my GP and he said you have peripheral neuropathy and gave me 10mg amitriptyline. I went back to my doctor a few weeks ago as the burning and numbness has spread and got worse. I asked to see a neurologist and reluctantly he referred me to the hospital and I have an appointment on the 19th December. I am now suffering with anxiety as I am so worried for the future and the more I read about it the worse I am feeling. The amitriptyline has not really done anything except make me feel like a zombie. Would diet help? I have not got diabetes, not overweight, my blood tests were normal. All I know is that I am finding it so difficult to live like this and am scared for the future. I would be grateful for any help.

A_renne profile image
A_renne in reply to Karjade

I'm not sure if diet will help but maybe it could , try an allergy doctor some food allergies cause burning I learned this after years of severe pain I'm still not fully better yet it's worth a shot not a lot of people know this, my allergy doctor told me that he has a patient that comes in and every time she eats something she's allergic to her legs burn , all of my blood test were also normal and other test , the allergy doctor was my last resort and I'm changing my diet , you should talk a nutrionist maybe they can help too , hope this helps :)

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to A_renne

It is worth trying a change of diet. I am not going to change anything at the moment until I have been to the hospital and had a range of tests and maybe something may come up. If not then I will make an appointment with a nutritionist. I feel it is so important never to give up xx

Helenh164 profile image
Helenh164 in reply to Karjade

Hi karjade. I’m having the same problem and I feel so down. I see you wrote this a couple of years ago and wondered how you are getting on now?

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Helenh164

Hi Helen. I am no better unfortunately and still struggling. I am still unsure what is causing my feet problems and I have been told I have peripheral neuropathy and now recently they are saying it could be exposed nerves in my lower spine. Nobody seems to know so I have now been referred to the Pain Clinic which I am pleased about as I may get some answers. The physio has given me back exercises to strengthen my lower spine which I do every day but there is nothing more she can do. What are your symptoms? xx

mac1984 profile image
mac1984 in reply to Karjade

Please look into salicylate sensitivity. Also you could have a problem with histamines. Healing histamine website is very good. It's very hard. I eat a low salicylate low histamine diet as well I don't have hardly any sugar or carbs and my symptoms are not there anymore. You should look into it and see if you have any of the other symptoms. Also look into mast cell activation. Hopefully you may have figured some of this out since your post is pretty old.

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to Karjade

Amitryptaline, as a side effect drains your body of Thiamine. If it got worse, it could suggest that your original problem was due to thiamine deficiency. read "Derrick Lonsdale's book or eonutrition on youtube for treatment options but you might want to try stopping that drug if you haven't developed any major beriberi symptoms perhaps getting intramuscular thiamine will be enough or intravenous thiamine in the case of an acute thiamine deficiency emergency. After that supplement with TTFD.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to A_renne

I JUST found this thread and I have had two lower back surgeries and one back. I am currently working with a Neurologist at a major hospital in Philadelphia whereas an EMG was performed and it came out fine. I have had all blood tests done and JUST had a CAT scan done on my abdominal and pelvic area; I'm awaiting results. I'm assuming that's going to be fine because I haven't heard from my doctor yet and it was two days ago. My question to you is can you share what Facebook groups are helping you. I'm desperate as I simply can not work any longer with my stomach always upset, gas, constipation and my right foot is in constant pain and now my 3rd and 4th tow on my left foot is starting with symptoms. If you can share I would be so grateful. Maynbe someone can help me?

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Boxer30

I'm sorry I asked about the Facebook page, I replied to the wrong person.

A_renne profile image
A_renne

Also some infections like Lyme disease and other infections can cause burning not sure what they checked you for but there are a lot of things that cause this so. If everything was negative maybe a diet change could help but talk to your doctor first before you change anything

Karjade profile image
Karjade

That is why I needed to be referred to a Neurologist as I just want every test possible and I will go armed with a list of questions. At the moment I am on steroids for a chest infection and feel these are helping the burning but I know I cannot take these forever but at least I am having five days of respite!

A_renne profile image
A_renne in reply to Karjade

I hope you find out what's going on so you can get some relief I know it's hard , I have been dealing with this for years. It has took its toll , I can't do a lot of the stuff I use to do because of it. And I think a list is a good idea to take with you a lot times a doctor won't test you for certain things unless you ask. Wish you the best and hope you get well , don't give up :)

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to A_renne

Thank you. It is so hard to live with. I am on a couple of groups on Facebook and they have been very helpful and I have learnt a lot more from them than my GP's have told me which was nothing!

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

I believe I replied to the wrong person as my post is above, can you please share the Facebook group which is helping you? I'm at my wits end with constipation, gas, my right foot is in extreme pain and now it's moving to my 3rd and 4th toe on my left foot. I would so appreciate it.

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

Have you been diagnosed with anything yet? My doctor said I had peripheral neuropathy but when I was referred to the neurologist he did a nerve induction test which showed the peripheral nerves to be okay. My feet are always burning and tingling and red and then go freezing cold and blue. I had a blood circulation test last week which was normal so I am no nearer as to what is causing it. The groups on Facebook are mostly for people who have been diagnosed with neuropathy which now I have not. I will give you the names of the groups in a separate reply but you need a diagnosis first. It is horrible to live with especially if you do not know what is causing it xx

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Karjade

The groups are Neuropathy/Nerve pain and Neuropathy Talk. Let me know how you get on but they can worry you a bit sometimes which they did me. Karen xx

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

I have a complicated past. I was in a very bad car accident when I was 16 years old and my entire left side was broken. Fast forward to 2006 when my first disc blew out in my back L4-L5 whereas I had a microdiscectomy. Two years later, that failed and I had a fusion. In 2013, my disc in my neck blew out pinning nerves against my spinal cord. These nerves controlled my left arm. I've been to a foot doctor, went to a major hospital in Philly for Neuropathy and my EMG on my lower legs was normal. However, it might be lumbar neuropathy? I JUST had a CAT scan done on my abdominal and pelvic area which I don't know the results yet. I'm assuming everything was fine with that as It was two days ago I went. My right foot is always in pain and now my left foot is starting to exhibit symptoms. I am beside myself as I notice when I eat, my foot pain seems to worsen. I can't go on like this because if I lay down too long my back is unbearable and yet walking only makes it hurt more. Actually when I'm walking, it's not so bad but I pay for it later. I'm just beside myself!

machoman1955 profile image
machoman1955 in reply to Karjade

your symptoms and doctors sound similar to mine 2 years ago (see my posting above 2 years ago). anyway somehow i stumbled on a book that discussed how sugar could cause neuropathy so when i cut down on sugar i started to notice a reduction in burning feet. it never completely went away but went way down plus i just got used to whatever burning was left. cut down on sugar and refined carbs (white flour) to see if this helps. you may notice a slight improvement at first but continue low sugar will continue to improve.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to machoman1955

Thank you SO MUCH as I'm desperate, my right foot us killing me and I have a very high threshold for pain. I JUST want help and I'm looking anywhere for it! God Bless You!

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to machoman1955

Sugar depletes B1 and that causes PN. Try adding vitamin B1 (as alithiamin A50 from Japan. They discovered B1 last century.

Haleyfaun profile image
Haleyfaun in reply to Karjade

This sounds like Raynaud's Phenomenon

Haleyfaun profile image
Haleyfaun in reply to Haleyfaun

(In reply to Karjade's symptoms)

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to Karjade

Even though your peripheral nerves are okay. you could have a problem with your autonomic nervous system which controls a lot of automatic functions of the body. So there may still be some benefit from cutting back on sugar and supplementing with TTFD

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to SoMuchBetter

I am still suffering with burning, tingling and numbness in my feet. I do not eat a lot of sugar but I have not given it up completely which I really need to try and do. My New Year’s resolution is to try and do more walking and eat sensibility. Have you got peripheral neuropathy? Can you please tell me what TTFD is? Thank you.

Dazzlegray profile image
Dazzlegray

Hi.............someone did briefly mention Lyme disease which can cause all these same symptoms and if you have the co-infections of bartonella, Babaseia, mycoplasma to name a few can certainly cause the symptoms. I would suggest to do some research into it and if it's a possibility find a Lyme literate doctor to help sort it out. It took 20 years to diagnose me properly and I have been on treatment for 10 years now because I can't kick it out of my system. Burning feet like my feet were sitting on hot irons was one of the symptoms I experienced along with sinus, lung issues, bladder issues and joint & muscle pain, spasms brain fog, eyes. Extreme fatigue like you walking thru quick sand, everything is an effort to do and it does not go away with rest or sleep. It pretty much affects you from head to toe. I feel for you not knowing what is causing your symptoms. Good luck with your pursuit of answers.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Dazzlegray

I feel so badly for you as I'm experiencing similar symptoms but my symptoms are constipation, gas, anxiety, fatigue along with right foot extremely painful and now 3rd and 4th toe on my left foot are acting up. I've been to every doctor from here to China and I have no answers. I simply can't work like this anymore. I'm happy you are feeling a little better.

Justlilme123 profile image
Justlilme123

Eating nearly anything with salt causes me horrible neuropathy.

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to Justlilme123

Balance your sodium with enough potassium. Very hard!

Kimberly_ profile image
Kimberly_

Any answers yet?

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Kimberly_

Hi Kimberly. I went to the neurologist on the 19 December and I had a nerve conduction test in my feet. He said the peripheral nerves were healthy so he does not really know what is causing the burning and slight numbness in my feet. I have stopped the amitriptyline as they did not help at all. I am going to a physio Wednesday to see if it is connected to my lower back as I do have problems with this. I went to a podiatrist and she measured me for inserts which I wear. I have thought about a dietician as well. I have not got diabetes and do not have pain really.

What are your symptoms and what have you done so far? I just cannot give up trying as it is very hard to live with. Karen xx

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

Have you had any luck? If you look above at my symptoms we have similar ones, however, I have history of 2 back surgeries and one neck. I ALSO had an EMG test done on my legs which were proven to be healthy. I have an appointment with a vascular doctor this Thursday to make sure enough oxygen is getting to my right foot in my case. This is so frustrating but I'm reaching out to everyone!

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

I had a circulation test last week and everything was within normal range. Went to physio - back shows wear and tear but nothing which is causing my feet to burn. Been to podiatrist and had inserts made for me which I wear regularly. Can't take amitriptyline and Gabapentin as make me feel suicidal. Trying feet exercises for building up muscles which I do not do regularly. Nerve induction for peripheral neuropathy carried out by neurologist which was within normal range. Now trying Biofreeze gel which helps. Also soaking my feet in Epsom salts which I have only started to do. Now wondering if I have Raynards as I have all the symptoms! My GP said there is no test for it only keeping your feet and hands warm. Don't give up as there will be something out there to help us xx

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

Have you had an MRI on your spine? Have you been checked for stenosis of the spine as this could cause these symptoms as well.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

Yes, I recently had an MRI and it showed all my surgeries but seemed to be fine. I just read my EMG report and it states right superficial peroneal sensory mildly reduced. His diagnosis ended up being lumbosacral radiculopathy. I just don't think that diagnosis is correct. I don't have sciatic pain. I think it's more related to my peroneal nerve. I'm thinking of getting a second opinion. However, I am going to the vascular doctor this Thursday, I'll report back.

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

I would get a second opinion if you are not happy. Good luck for Thursday and do let us know xx

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

Thank you, that's what I'm going to do.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

So I went to the vascular doctor yesterday and I HATE to say this but he was so full of himself and literally no help. He said I had a very good pulse in my foot and didn't feel additional testing was warranted. I agreed. I said I have such a high threshold for pain and I'm beside myself with the constant cramping and pain. He basically told me to deal with it. What a jerk. I had a follow up with my OBGYN who looked over all my results and noticed my adrenal gland had mild modular thickening (but the radiologist said it was a normal CAT scan). I had high proteins in my 24 hour urine test and he didn't like that along with the problems with my adrenal gland. He suggested I see an endocrinologist which I made an appointment for. I explained my symptoms and results and believe it or not, she squeezed me in because they were booked months out. She said something sounds very wrong. I go on the 27th of February. This has been an exhausting road but I'm determined. I REALLY don't think it's lumbar neuropathy. I mean I do have that but I know there is something else going on with me. I'll report back. I hope you are feeling better everyday.

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

Sounds just like what I am going through. Could you tell me what an endocrinologist is? Told by my GP I had peripheral neuropathy so suffered with anxiety and fear for over six months imagining I would end up in a wheelchair! Insisted I had an appointment with neurologist whereas the induction test was normal, had circulation test which was normal, all blood tests appear normal. I have tried everything from podiatrist for inserts to physio and vitamins to amitriptyline and Gabapentin. Nothing works! Nobody cares and just been told to eat healthily and walk an hour a day. Yesterday was a particularly bad day and my feet were unbearable. They were icy cold even with socks on, tingling, feeling I was walking on electric shocks, burning and hurting, could not stand. I could cry now as I have no hope of getting better and do not know where to go from here. I am pleased they are doing something for you and I wish my GP would help me but he has washed his hands of me xxx

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30 in reply to Karjade

When all my tests were done on my CAT sad there was modular thickening of my adrenal gland and on my 24 hour urine test my protein was high. An endocrinologist is an adrenal gland/normal doctor. This has so much to do with your body. After I told the girl at the endocrinologist, she squeezed me in immediately even though they are booked 5 months out.

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Boxer30

You are very lucky to get in that quick. I am not sure where to turn to next. I have not got the support of my GP so it is very difficult. Are you on any medication that has helped you? I was thinking of have acupuncture to see if that helps. Anything is worth a try!

Zahraa1233 profile image
Zahraa1233 in reply to Karjade

What about now days do you have still feet burning and pain ?

Karjade profile image
Karjade in reply to Zahraa1233

Hi. Yes I am still getting the burning and numbness. I am on the waiting list for a Lidocaine infusion to see if that helps. I am doing more walking lately and I feel this has helped a bit. I am taking 2 x 100mg of Gabapentin a day which is an extremely low dose but it does help a bit. Are you having burning and numbness as well in your feet?

Truthrocksatx profile image
Truthrocksatx in reply to Boxer30

I had the same treatment from my Doc😤

Kim_ profile image
Kim_ in reply to Karjade

Insulin resistance

Kim_ profile image
Kim_ in reply to Kim_

Don't eat any carbs. 20g or less a day. Try Keto diet.

Truthrocksatx profile image
Truthrocksatx in reply to Kim_

Dr Berg Youtube has so much info on this subject.

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30

I have tried acupuncture. I get it done every month. Does absolutely nothing for me. I am lucky as to I don't need referrals to go see a doctor, I just go. My OBGYN is extremely supportive and so is my primary doctor. I have been thinking and I've been reading article after article AND the funny thing is my very first reading on my sugar panel was 100 which is right over the limit. So I was thinking of getting a glucose panel test I guess strips. I notice after I eat especially something sweet, my foot really hurts. It's on fire. I mean the pain never goes away but it seems to worsen when I eat. I THINK my sugar rises right after I eat? The fasting test wouldn't show this! I'm pretty sure glucose strips are cheap. Do you ever feel that way? Maybe it has something to do with our sugar after we eat?

AlwsyshopefullSarah profile image
AlwsyshopefullSarah in reply to Boxer30

Try looking into a low histamine diet

JimmyD123 profile image
JimmyD123

Sorry to hear your so miserable - go to a Podiatrist!

My husband has been to every dr. For his neurapthy and finally finding a good podiatrist is most helpful... Believe me- the neurologist never helped us. Give it a try it will help

Take Care!

JimmyD123

Boxer30 profile image
Boxer30

I had the same symptoms as you do. I hope il not asking too personal of a question but do you get constipated?

robinlina profile image
robinlina

I have the same, I suddenly developed extreme burning pain in my feet at night, usually after dinner.... but what I noticed is that some days was worse than others, depending on what I had for dinner.

When I eat something heavy, hot or very rich, or I eat a lot, the burning is way worse.

Been reading and researching and concluded that certain foods make my stomach/gut too acidic, so what I do and has been helping a lot is:

- Drink a glass of warm water with half a lemon or lime with dinner or after dinner

- Drink water with half teaspoon of baking soda

- Eat lots of vegetables during the day or juice them or blend them

- Try to eliminate sugars from your diet

- Eliminate the heavy dinners altogether

You will see a big difference if you eat healthier.

Me personally, I'm not too much of a salad person, I rather have my vegetables in a juice.

I have a good size blender that I bought for 35 bucks and there I blend my fresh veggies and berries with some water. I been drinking this at lunch time to increase my vegetable daily intake:

- Handful of strawberries or blueberries

- 1/2 cucumber

- 1/2 celery stick

- 1/2 lime or lemon

- Handful of spinach or kale

- Some water... blend

Voilà!! ... An easy and healthy drink that helps you be more alkaline and stop the burning feet!....

I like to add an apple sometimes but I try to stay away from fruit because of the sugar, so usually I only add some berries.

Read more about alkaline diets.

Hope this helps 🌼

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to robinlina

Try a Ruminant Carnivore diet as an elimination diet. If it is vegetable antinutrient related, it will stop. You can then try adding foods back one by one to see whats causing it. Could be nightshades.

Kiyomi profile image
Kiyomi

I have burning feet and legs immediately after I eat oranges and grapefruit. I wonder I others have the same problem.

ShuShugar profile image
ShuShugar in reply to Kiyomi

Yes from any sweet fruit if eaten in sufficient quantity. I was a high fruit and rice eater when I developed the condition approximately an year ago. Made me go back to eating a lot of meat and low carb. As soon as a allow myself little bit more fruit I get it. I get it from beer, not as much from wine and spirits. I guess it is a metabolic disorder, unable to process the sugars anymore so probably kind of an insulin resistance but fasted insulin is fine, A1C fasted vs A1C having eaten is fine, sugar is fine. Quite a precarious situation but when I am reading how much more pain people are feeling mine seems not as severe. Unfortunately will likely have to keep very low with fruits and sugars

SoMuchBetter profile image
SoMuchBetter in reply to ShuShugar

Sugar fruit and white rice cause beri beri, which can lead to PN. Brown rice can damage your gut through anti nutrients.

Solution :use polished parboiled rice, which retains the vitamin B1 while removing the antinutrients in the polishings.

Oleaafricana profile image
Oleaafricana in reply to Kiyomi

Hi kiyomi..... Had the same problem and it happens mostly when one takes a meal high in carbohydrates...... The sad part is that all the sugar and glucose readings are okey....... From my own experience i believe the issue is caused by adrenal disorders i.e adrenal insufficiently where the hormones dont produce adequate amount of cortisal and other hormones...... Visit a neaby endocrinologist and tell her...... Still you can take a supplement called ashwagandha...... It helps soo much.

Achayi profile image
Achayi in reply to Kiyomi

Stop eating lemon, orange, or apple cider vinegar or vitmain C for a while...you will be alright. Take b12 supplements with another important vitamin (I don't remember it)

AlwsyshopefullSarah profile image
AlwsyshopefullSarah in reply to Kiyomi

You may have mast cell disorder or histamine intolerance. Histamjne is what is responsible in our bodies for dilating out veins. Too much histamine, veins over dilate and cause burning pain. Citrus fruits are very high in histamine. As are many other foods. A low histamine diet may help you

Hopinggh profile image
Hopinggh

Thank you so much for your post.

I have pn for many years. I vaguely recall it seemed to get worse while i was eating way back.

You need to cut out Mc Donalds 24/7. Thats what i would do.

Because of your insight, and confession about eating habits, i am re inspired to try cutting carbs out of my life. I had a vague feeling it was my problem and the sugars had destroyed my nerves from years of high sugars.

When you post to fellow pn sufferers, you can be an inspiration even though you feel you are spilling out your heart.

I plan to get a vibrating platform you stand on. It is supposed to be great for circulation, diabetes and even losing weight without any stress.

Good luck and wishing you Happy Holidays and Happy New Year !

Hopinggh

Classical8 profile image
Classical8

Did you find cause if it. I m suffering from same issue. After eating sugary foods,my legs and feet vibrate

Justlilme123 profile image
Justlilme123

I have problems with burning, stinging and pain (neuropathy) after eating. I started keeping track of what I was eating. I am not a diabetic but I noticed when I ate anything with sugar or salt it was worse. I stopped eating out at all. I cut out processed foods and cut way back on carbs. I still have some problems but not like I did. I do realize at 23 years old eating no sugar or salt and almost no carbs is going to be very difficult. Eating at places like Mdonalds is the worst for high sodium and carbs. You just have to decide if the taste of the food is worth the pain. If you are having these problems at age 23 and continue to poison your body with the sodium, sugar and carbs you will pay a high price as you get older. I turned 59 two days ago. I have rheumatoid arithritis. I really believe it was caused by eating at fast food and other restaurants for so many years.

Rachmaninov2 profile image
Rachmaninov2 in reply to Justlilme123

I have Inflammatory Arthritis and have been taking Prednisolone and Methotrexate. My GP thinks I may have Methotrexate induced peripheral neuropathy, I have stinging, burning pain in my feet and hands and dilated blood vessels. I am having blood tests done tomorrow and also waiting for referral to a neurologist.

Achayi profile image
Achayi

Stop drinking lemon juice or apple cider vinegar or excess vitamin C tablets for a while...it will just go away. To test this...try lemon juice alone 3 times a day...and burning will increase on that day night... your body looses b12 and another important vitamin with this...this can be reverted and fixed in days....

Xuggy profile image
Xuggy

I had this same issue after I messed with my diet. You may have developed a gluten sensitivity. If your feet are burning after eating I seriously suggest cutting out all gluten. It takes 4 weeks to feel the change and notice the burning is no longer returning.

Sounds like you have Fabry disease

I have the exact same symptoms, plus get headaches, super fatigued-have to lay down, blood pressure drops, ibs symptoms, sinuses and ears get congested, loose voice. My doctor believes I have MCAS- mast cell activation syndrome(normal amount of mast cells but are over active), mastocytosis(body makes too many mast cells) , or a histamine intolerance(which is low doa enzyme and gut related). Mast cells are what release histamine and a bunch of other stuff. Histamine is what your body uses to control blood vessel dilation. Too much histamine and your blood vessels dilate too much. Hence the burning parking in hands, feet, sometimes pelvic area. There is histamine in all food, (some more then others) so when you eat, symptoms get much worse. A low histamine diet has helped me so so much. Do 24hr urine histamine, ,2,3dinor-11beta-prostaglandin F2, leukotrienes tests, a spot urine prostaglandin d2, and a serum tryptase and histamine tests. Once you have done the tests, try going on the diet. Also, heat, stress, exercise, sun, friction vibration or jarring can bring on a histamine release. Here is an article on histamine intolerance that is a good overview of histamine and diet. Mastocytosis and mcas are different but the diet is the same.

histamine-sensitivity.com/h...

It's such a rare thing, that most doctors dont know enough. Look for a doctor that treats mast cell disorders. They are more aware of tests and treatments available.

Get your google on and learn how to read medical study papers. When you find a good article, google the doctors listed in the research paper. Frequently they have published other helpful papers. You are going to have to be your own advocate and not rely on the doctors to figure it out.

Feel free to hit me up for and other info

I wish you the best!

There is also a really rare thing called erythromalalgia. But for this, youd have to see mayo clinic. It's very very rare

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