Painful Feet: I would like to know if very... - Thyroid UK

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Painful Feet

Iphoenix profile image
99 Replies

I would like to know if very painful feet are a symptom of hypothyroidism as sometimes when I stand up my feet hurt so much in fact I can feel every bone in them hurting and even though I buy hotter shoes I am finding they are doing nothing to ease the discomfort.

Your thoughts on this would be much appreciated.

Wishing you all good health.

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Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix
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99 Replies
Suzy61Taylor profile image
Suzy61Taylor

Good morning iphoenix. For me personally, the symptom of painful feet, especially first thing in the morning and late at night when weight bearing is a sure sign I'm having a flare up with my thyroid. It happens too often to be 'just one of those things'. When I'm stable (meds meeting my needs), the pain goes away completely.

helbell profile image
helbell in reply toSuzy61Taylor

Same as Suzy

Sandybeach1964 profile image
Sandybeach1964

Plantar fasciitis and tender heel pad are symptoms of Hypothyroidism. I have suffered with both. For the latter I had an injection into the right heel which was excruciating however it did ease the pain, my Dr said the heel tissue is like bubble wrap that's popped, sounds gross I know. For both symptoms I bought special insoles that cost £30 but are worth every penny. They have a liquid in them and I bought them at the caravan exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham.

Treepie profile image
Treepie

Dr .Skinner noted that some patients had something llike the eqivalent of carpal tunnel syndrome in their feet.

Nannacatlady profile image
Nannacatlady in reply toTreepie

Yes I've read that. It's calledTarsal tunnel syndrome

Treepie profile image
Treepie in reply toNannacatlady

Yes ,Dr Skinner called it that but when i posted i did not know it was a recognised term.

Marz profile image
Marz

How are your B12 levels ? - and VitD ?

MrsSAcky profile image
MrsSAcky

Exactly the same, cortisone injections in both heels bout 10yrs ago, helped, but the best thing I did was Dr Matens boots/shoes, Birkenstocks (there ortho shoes believe it or not!) and I prefer Skechers did trainers great cushioning... But there my choices of course x

maggie1111 profile image
maggie1111 in reply toMrsSAcky

I agree, sketchers are the most comfortable shoe I have found, I used to wear ankle boots for ages, but then found my ankles got weak , so now in sketchers. My heels were so painful until I got more stable on adrenal supplements and armour thyroid

Gambit62 profile image
Gambit62

With Marz on this as it could also be a symptom of a vit B12 deficiency (wasn't aware D could have the same effect though). Very common to have B12 absorption problems as well as thyroid.

As per Treepie the condition is sometimes known as tarsal tunnel. It can be eased by using arch supports. One reason it happens is that there is weakness in the muscles in the bottom of the foot that causes the arches to drop which causes minor shifts in all the position of the bones and tendons in the ankle and heel and constricts the nerves running through them - the arch supports helps to correct this - reducing the pressure on the nerve which is causing the problem.

B12 may help - particularly if you have a deficiency - as it is essential to protecting the sheath around the nerve that insulates it from the outside and allows signals to run freely so more constriction is needed before you get the pains

helvella profile image
helvellaAdministrator in reply toGambit62

For me (and possibly no-one else on the planet), any form of arch support causes problems and pain! Be careful what you choose.

I found very soft diabetic insoles helped a lot and still use them.

I am convinced that my plantar fasciitis was caused by hypothyroidism and resolved by levothyroxine.

Gambit62 profile image
Gambit62 in reply tohelvella

Thanks - can imagine that there would be instances where supports might actually shift everything to make thing worse - certainly good to make sure that if you get support it is the sort of support that is needed

Pip317 profile image
Pip317 in reply tohelvella

I too have a problem wearing any sort of arch support, and particularly those that are stiff with little or no give. I have gotten the best results using PRoFOOT Triad Orthotic which offers a soft, three zone support of the heel, arch and ball of foot. Insert is 3/4 length and stops just short of your toes.

Nannacatlady profile image
Nannacatlady in reply tohelvella

I am on 50micrograms of levothyroxine and I'm sorry to say that it's not helping me at the moment.

MrsRaven profile image
MrsRaven in reply tohelvella

Definitely with you on this. My arches dropped years ago, the podiatrist said I probably used to have very good feet before that. He had some special arch supports made for me, and they caused me even worse problems.

I have had plantar fasciatis, numbness with a burning feeling, aching tendons and sometimes cant move my toes. It comes and goes, is worse in the morning or if I am walking a lot, and definitely worse when my thyroid is out of whack. Its one of the things that starts up first.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix in reply toMrsRaven

Ouch that sounds so painful. I hope you don't have to suffer that for too much longer.

FlippinThyroid profile image
FlippinThyroid

There are many symptoms of thyroid disease and this link highlights foot pain. thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

deb25426 profile image
deb25426

I too suffer now and again with painful feet.. Had injections and they have helped me... I buy sketchers go walk shoes, they are the best I've found. I know they are expensive and not for everyone.. X

beaton profile image
beaton

Well if you could see me coming down stairs in the morning,one at a time, you would laugh.

I have pain in the front of my feet where the toes meet the body of the foot and in the toes themselves. Sometimes, mostly during the evening the toes swell. I have bunions on both feet I always where hotter shoes with a wide toe box and have never worn heels. I get the same symptoms in my hands but as I don't walk on them, it is less of a problem. I have Hashimoto's and Psoriasis and always put this down to Psoriatic Arthritis. Doctors don't seem interested.

Barrister profile image
Barrister in reply tobeaton

Beaton, I have PsA and that is how I come downstairs when I'm having a flare. I'm on biologics now so it's much better. I had painful feet ( exactly where you are describing - feels like you are walking on marbles) for years before anyone took any notice. As you already have psoriasis you need to tell your GP that you want to be referred to a rheumatologist because you are highly likely to develop PsA and you need treating earlier rather than later. Clemmie

Nannacatlady profile image
Nannacatlady in reply tobeaton

You sound like me coming down the stairs. Mine is the whole foot but the heel is worse. It feels like they have been skinned and set on fire. Sorry to sound so graphic but that's the best way to describe it. If my gp doesn't do anything this time I shall sit on her floor and cry!

MrsRaven profile image
MrsRaven in reply tobeaton

Ditto to all of that beaton. Before I was crocked up with FMS and thyroid issues I could wear anything, including 6" heels. But now I spend most of my time in gardening clogs because they dont constrict my toes or the balls of my feet. Like you I put it down to psoriasis, as I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, but it definitely gets worse when my thyroid goes south.

I am truly shocked and disgusted that doctors seem to know so little about the issues thyroid problems cause, and dismiss them so lightly.

beaton profile image
beaton in reply toMrsRaven

Thanks Mrs. Rave, glad I'm not alonne.x

Lina13 profile image
Lina13

I have had pain in my feet for three years now. Used to walk 1.5 hour every morning and had to stop completely over night. I get pain in my forefeet (metatarsalgia) after walking or standing despite always wearing good shoes and custom insoles. Have been wondering if it was connected to the thyroid. Well it seems it is! And what Suzy61Taylor wrote gave me some hope.

Mabes profile image
Mabes in reply toLina13

I have pain in exactly the same area and also wear good shoes and orthotics. It is so painful and annoying. It hurts even if I flex my feet when lying down or non weight bearing.

Lina13 profile image
Lina13 in reply toMabes

Me too! Flexing my feet or moving my toes too much really hurts and sometimes I get these kind of electric shootings and hear like something snapping in there. It makes me so sad to have this because I love walking and I sing in a choir with lots of standing which is so painful.

DonnyJam profile image
DonnyJam

I'm suffering the very same symptom right now. My left heel feels like I've bruised it inside yet I haven't done anything to cause it. I'm autoimmune hypothyroid as well. Hope there are people with experience of this and know how to ease or get rid of the pain because it's causing me to limp and is quite painful.

Singoutloud profile image
Singoutloud

I can normally tell I'm due a B12 injection for my pernicious anaemia when the pains in my feet start to get worse.

BethattheBeach profile image
BethattheBeach in reply toSingoutloud

My experience with B12 jabs, too, Singoutloud. Feet get really sore - slowly improving with B12. They are my bell wether signs that I am due another injection.

chorkie profile image
chorkie

Hello Iphoenix I have very painful feet too and I have also suffered with plantar fasciitis. I find it has helped considerably to wear Croc's. They come in all shapes and colours now and they don't have to be the hideous pink clog style but they are soft and supportive and help a lot. I also wear Sketchers trainers which have memory foam insoles and find them very comfortable as well. Thyroid signs and symptoms are so misunderstood by the medical fraternity. I have been hypothyroid since my early thirties now (I'm 63) and despite medication still have many Thyroid connected issues.

looselywoven profile image
looselywoven in reply tochorkie

Sometimes I can't stand up unless I have my crocs on - the only 'shoe' that makes the pain bearable. As was commented earlier, I too find that it is noticeably worse at he same time as other hypoT symptoms - low temperature, fatigue,etc. Am on NDT but still not up to optimal,

Sara70 profile image
Sara70

I've also got a painful right foot in the morning as well as a constant pain in my right arm that's sensitive to the touch.

It's not something you would naturally attribute to a thyroid problem. To be honest, I was quite scared and really wondered if the seizures I'd been having , had done some permanent damage.

However, since taking Vit D which I was deficient in and b complex and iron, it has 'improved '.

I'm in less pain and just took receipt of a load of other supplements yesterday, including Vit k, Vit c, selenium, b12.

I'll post if they make a difference or not

I'm currently not on any meds from a GP, so I'm only supplementing.

I hope you feel better soon xxx😊

Sara

GJM1 profile image
GJM1

When I was very hypothyroid my feet not only hurt, they swelled so much I couldn't put my shoes on! Fortunately it is no longer a problem. There is lots of good advice in reply but have you tried soaking your feet in Epsom salts dissolved in warm water? A cheap and simple remedy that might relieve some of the pain. There is some evidence of magnesium being absorbed from epsom salts.

Naomi8 profile image
Naomi8

I always sit with my feet up when I am at home.I wear £20 "Sofsole"insoles,even in my crocs!I buy shoes one size larger when I can,so I can add top quality insoles.I have a big collection,but use £20 "Sofsole"insoles when there's room.I have Doc M's but need extra insoles-thin gel are good when there's little room.I also find "Skechers"version of MBTs excellent(like walking on wet sand but much cheaper than MBTs)

I use a Novasonic "infrasound"massager when the pain is bad.

Having said all that-HUGE improvement since adding T3,D3,B12....

mistydog profile image
mistydog

I had this, it has largely resolved being on NDT.

Binkie profile image
Binkie in reply tomistydog

same here, my feet were unbearable for years, pain, swollen and felt like steam iron on both soles, dreadful hard skin etc went with NDT when feet get painful now, i have tracked it down to lack of vit B5 and add extra avocado and marmite to my daily food :)

glo42 profile image
glo42

I have a hyperthyroid condition that has flared up again in March after a 12 months remission. I also have extremely painful pads on the soles of my feet that are tight when I wake up every morning. I do stretching foot exercises, point my toes and relaxing both feet before I get out of bed and until the tightness in the bottom of my feet feels a little less painful.

I find myself hobbling like an old lady..... well actually I AM an old lady of 73, but I have never hobbled around as I am forced to do right now because of the pain in the soles of my feet. My heel isn't affected, only the soft pad near my toes.

I have bought shoe inserts in the past which have helped and need to buy some new ones again. My sympathy to all other sufferers right now. Another nasty painful symptom of having a thyroid condition that we all could do without. xxx

in reply toglo42

Mine is just like yours glo42, the pad near my toes is where the pain is worse. I also get hot stabbing pains in my big toes, it sometimes feels like the nails are being lifted off the nail bed. I gave all my shoes and boots to charity, after 9 gears of this I don't think it will ever be resolved. Do you find resting your feet makes no difference? I'm often kept awake at night by this pain, and the more I'm on my feet the worse it gets.

glo42 profile image
glo42 in reply to

Helcaster, you have my sympathy. I haven't had this feet pain for as long as you have, but certainly far too long for my liking.

I have found that resting makes the condition worse as when I try to walk around the souls of my feet are burning and it is very painful.

At night I have a pillow to rest my feet on and I'm not sure this helps to be honest. The morning comes and I have foot stiffness and pain as soon as I wake up and so I lay and stretch my feet before getting out of bed.

in reply toglo42

glo42, I had some splints from the hospital to try and stretch my calf muscles, as they are tight and hard, I'm sure this contributes.

Which thyroid meds are you on? Do you think you're on enough? I take a high dose but doesn't seem to resolve any symptoms. I take Hydrocortisone too for low cortisol. The weirdest thing is the swelling doesn't even go down with raising my feet.

glo42 profile image
glo42 in reply to

Helcaster, I have an active thyroid condition that has been in remission for 12 months and now have been prescribed 10mg Carbimazole again since March. My next routine blood test will be end of next week.

I also have swelling on just one foot, which doesn't go down with resting or overnight.......... very strange.

Hope you begin to feel less foot pain soon. xxx

in reply toglo42

Hi glo42, so you're Overactive, does the carbimazole help with your symptoms?

I have swelling on both feet, but more so on my right. I know it's just too weird it doesn't go down overnight!!

Hope your bloods have improved, and you can eventually get some relief from your foot pain :-( xxxx

glo42 profile image
glo42 in reply to

Well Helcaster, with my left swollen foot and your right one, we would make a good pair of bookends!!

I am not making light of this awful foot pain, but I do think that it helps having a sense of humour.

The carbimazol does work to calm the nasty overactive symptoms down and I count myself very fortunate that I don't have side effects like some others do. I am hopeful that the next weeks routine blood test will show that I have become stabilized.

Fingers crossed and positive thinking for now. xxx

in reply toglo42

Well done for staying positive! I really hope you get stable soon.

I have multiple health problems to manage and I agree it's really hard at times to keep on top if everything, especially when your conditions cause a lot of pain. I used to see a clinical psychologist for support, but where I live now there's nothing like that. I found setting goals helped, especially trying to get out of the house. Hopefully we'll both get some sunshine to make us feel better. My garden growing lifts my spirits.

Hugs. Xxx

glo42 profile image
glo42 in reply to

Helcaster

I agree that it isn't easy to have multiple health problems (so do I) and try to think in a positive way, but it is possible and the alternative just isn't a road that I want to go down right now.

I have bought some new orthotic insoles and hope they will help to improve the painful soles of my feet.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

I also enjoy spending time in the garden, but I find it is hard work keeping on top of the weeds. I have to do little and often or I am exhausted for several days afterwards.

Thank you for the hugs.... returning them to you right now. Take care. xxx

in reply toglo42

I hope they work for you glo42. I had some made by a podiatrist, and the orthopaedic hospital, I wore them for 2 years but they didn't help. I think one of the reasons was because they were so hard, so maybe gel filled ones would be a lot better. I've worn Sketchers and now wearing Crocs in the house, the most relief I've felt is with Clark's Waves but they don't seem to be making many now.

I was always gardening but sadly I can't kneel, I do what I can but it's a huge source of frustration. It was my main stress busting activitity. Now I have to tell my partner, who isn't a gardener what to do. I enjoy choosing the plants, but really miss getting my hands in the soil.

Yes the pacing is an absolute must, or you get payback!

Xxx

crimple profile image
crimple

I had a great deal of pain in the balls of my feet, liking walking on glass or in a red hot fire. Since maxing B12 and Vit D and visiting podiatrist (was referred byGP) and getting advice on insoles I don't have any more probs except if I wear smart heeled shoes for more than an hour! I wear "sensible shoes" and insoles most of the time. I was diagnosed with a morton's neuroma (actually diagnosed it myself- but podiatrist arranged a scan which confirmed the diagnosis.) This is in my left foot and feels like an area of numbness. Heeled shoes make it hurt. I was offered alcohol or steroid injections but declined and hardly think about it now. Hope all the good advice on here especially re Vits and insoles helps you to improve things.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix in reply tocrimple

Re-reading this response I can relate to the wearing of heeled shoes aggravating the situation but that was before I had what I now describe as painful feet.

Bambalam profile image
Bambalam

I had this too- every time I stood up it felt like every bone in my feet were breaking.

At the time my Vit D levels were really low. My GP prescribed Vit D and after about a month the pain went. It's never come back.

Interestingly my TSH has spiked since, and my levo was raised. But the foot pain didn't come back with it.

Hope you get some relieve from it, it's awful

MariLiz profile image
MariLiz

I was actually referred to the hospital orthopaedic department for severe pain and swelling under the front of my left foot. It was so bad, I was hobbling everywhere. I was told that the tendons had overstretched allowing one of the metatarsal heads to drop. I was pretty much walking on bone on that foot. The swelling was my body's way of trying to cushion it.

I now have purpose made supports for both shoes, (apparently they can't just do one or it throws the back out). The pain has eased, and some of the swelling has gone down.

I'd assumed it was the fibromyalgia causing it, but, according to the lady at the surgical appliance department, I have hypermobility, which allows the tendons to overstretch. I've also got underactive thyroid and low B12, so any combination of things may have caused it. Walking to the bathroom in the mornings I still hobble.

vcle1909 profile image
vcle1909

What a relief to know what's causing my painful feet! It's incredible how hypothyroidism affects every part of your body.

For the first time in twelve months I forgot to take my levo twice a couple of weeks ago. I now wonder if this has caused an imbalance and therefore caused this problem with my feet?

BadHare profile image
BadHare

Hi,

I see a podiatrist for feet & ankle issues. I was given a few different insoles, one for posture, & one for posture & foot support. I've worn gel & foam insoles for years, but these are a step up (no pun intended!) from the ones available in the shops. He suggested Sketchers for lighter wear, when I asked what I could use in the summer, & also said not to wear flat soles, so I also have gel & foam heels to put in shoes that might need them.

Mel

Suedan profile image
Suedan

Hi Ipheonix, I suffered for many years with severely painful feet, could hardly walk and wearing heels was impossible. I am happy to say that I no longer suffer with painful feet due to supplementing with vitamin D3. I still wear comfortable shoes but mainly because that's what I'm used to now. I started on a high dose for a couple of months and when I started feeling pain-free I reduced the dose to the recommended daily dose to maintain supplementing. I did have a test and found insufficient and it was quite a shock to realise that this had been the cause of my painful feet for so many years. Good luck x

Sausage_Dog profile image
Sausage_Dog

I saw a physio once for my foot pain. He said it was plantar fasciitis. Little easy stretches really helped me a lot.

Also i wear Teva sandals in the summer now because I found my usual summer sandals were irritating it.

I did stretches like this healthline.com/health/fitne...

:)

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix in reply toSausage_Dog

Those stretches look really helpful thank you Sausage dog for the information and videos I do think there could be one big problem though to do with the big toe stretch, How do I grab my big toe? All answers appreciated :)

jacquelis2 profile image
jacquelis2

Having painful feet was one of the first symptoms of hypo. for me. They were painful, hot and swollen when usually my feet are quite skinny and I had to buy broader shoes. My ankles were also starting to puff-up a bit too. Thankfully after a few months of levo. everything went back to normal. Thanks to ThUK I understand a bit it more about hypo. now so wonder if it was all caused by myxodaeama as I started to gain weight and started to feel very tired. I am sure it was all part of the hypo. syndrome. Hope you will back to normal soon. Good Luck, jax

mourneadventurer profile image
mourneadventurer

Hello iphoenix,

Perhaps try a GenovaNutrient and Toxic Elements Profile test to check mineral status?

I've discovered I'm very low in Potassium as I would cramp easily particularly in bed and foot tendons very tight at one point I could hardly walk without Vibram soled walking soles.

High cortisol wastes Potassium and then kicks the cellular pump out of sync.

High cortisol can be caused by exotoxins from gut pathogens which can also release high oxalates - they form very sharp crystals within joints. The Great Plains Laboratory Organic Acids Test - Nutritional and Metabolic Profile has also been invaluable to me though you might need to work with a Functional Nutritionist to interpret.

If the cell wall is closed then everything has difficulty getting in or out including T3!

Currently I'm sipping an electrolytic drink and taking Epsom salt (Magnesium Sulphate) baths and Magnesium oil topically to support Magnesium and Potassium status.

It would be prudent as well to check both Vitamin B12 status (NHS, Active (Blue Horizon), and Nutritional and Metabolic markers (Great Plains Laboratories) alongside Vitamin D3 status (vitamindtest.org.uk).

I hope you'll be able to enjoy walking tpainfree on the road to good health soon.

Best Wishes

Mourneadventurer.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix

Thank you Mourneadventurer, I had forgotten about those awful foot cramps and I have no idea why as I have been suffering from them for about the last two years until about a couple of weeks ago! I am sure my B12 is low but not according to my blood test results.

mourneadventurer profile image
mourneadventurer in reply toIphoenix

Personally I didn't believe the NHS serum blood tests for B12 as it can swamp the blood and actually not get into the cell. This is what I've experienced unwittingly with T4 mono therapy! Hence better to do the Active B12 from Blue Horizon or the Organic Acids test mentioned above. The exotoxins given off in your gut might be mopping up your Magnesium or Potassium.

Best Wishes

Mourenadventurer

MrsRaven profile image
MrsRaven in reply toIphoenix

I was told by my endo that my B12 was "in range" so not a problem. It was - but it was bumping along the bottom. So I supplemented with sublingual methycobalamin. I felt better!

You cant believe anything doctors tell you.

TraceyLE profile image
TraceyLE

I first had planta fasciitis at the same time as being diagnosed with hypo. I have suffered 3 times now over over the past 8 years and it does take months to disappear. I used to walk around a lot in the summer with bare feet and found this is probably the cause. I now buy pairs of Titan Orthotic insoles from Amazon which I have in my slippers, dog walking wellies and other shoes as they are not too expensive any very slim. All my vit levels are fine so I know it is now footwear that is the issue. I wear Hotter shoes to go out in but do find my feet a bit painful if I am walking all day in them. I also have a pair of Birkenstock sandals for the summer which are bliss to wear but not very dressy. I am now suffering from a very painful elbow which I think is antibody related but can't get soles for that lol. Best wishes Tracey

Guillemette profile image
Guillemette

I have suffered from Plantar Fasciitis and it still flares up occasionally but now I have a lump on my heel which I am told is a bursitis on my Achilles tendon. It is very painful at times despite physiotherapy of all sorts which has only made it worse. I have been offered an operation but that would entail being immobile in a boot for ages which I cant be because I care for my mother. I can't believe this is yet another symptom of hypothyroidism. For the Plantar Fasciitis I can recommend freesteps shoes which are a little cheaper than sketchers and are leather and machine washable if a bit "granny" looking. I can't recommend anything for the heel, I have not ben offered an injection but a bag of frozen peas.

I've had the same problem for 9 years now, and definitely one of my worst symptoms. Mine are swollen where the toes join the feet and all underneath on the soles, my ankles are really swollen too. I had two years where my toes didn't move at all, now on my right foot the toes between 2 and 3 there's a big gap that wasn't there before. On the tops of my feet there's swelling all along one of the big nerves that lands between the big toe and second toe. I had insoles made at the hospital and they did nothing for me. B12 injections have done nothing too. The hospital said it was plantar faciitis, but I had my doubts. Eventually after getting absolutely nowhere I insisted on a scan and the plantar muscle was fine! The nearest thing I can see which describes my pain is tarsal tunnel syndrome. I wear Clark's Wave shoes, I need a very wide shoes for my toes and slightly raised at the toe too. I haven't worn heels for 9 years now, the 2 inch kind!

willowland profile image
willowland in reply to

I've got the same as you...nice to know I'm not alone!!

in reply towillowland

I'm so sorry willowland that you are suffering. Out of all my health problems I think it's my painful feet that get me down the most. It really ruins everything you try to do.

willowland profile image
willowland in reply to

Had mine for 9 years as well, diagnosed with restless legs, take Mirapexin to help me sleep at night. Trying B12 and Magnesium now. Saw post above about foot supports so unearthed some I got a while ago.

in reply towillowland

I have restless legs too willowland, I just take gabapentin when I can't stand it any longer. Do you have really hard tight calf muscles? I do and I'm sure this contributes. Tried magnesium, B12 and nothing touches it. Someone mentioned B 5 too, but I take a lot of that for my adrenals. At such a loss now, I've upped my Vit D, only thing I'm lacking in is iron, but when I've been able to take it it doesn't help.

willowland profile image
willowland in reply to

Gabapentin worked for a bit, but decided not to take them any more. Muscles at the back of my knee get tight, so do stretches, especially when I want to finish reading a book or watch tv programme and my feet, muscles are painful.

in reply towillowland

Willow, Gabapentin makes your memory even worse! I've been taking it for 10 years for interstitial cystitis, it doesn't take pain away just zonkes you out. I've been concerned recently about the effect it may have on my already exhausted adrenals, as there can be a connection?

Interesting too that the back of your knee gets tight. I think our muscles get saturated with mucin and become inflexible. When I went to the foot and ankle consultant he couldn't believe how tight I am, I find it impossible to flex my feet upwards if that makes sense. I do stretches and have night splints, but not much improvement. I get terrible calf pain on the slightest incline when walking, it really knocks me sick. I describe it like stitch in my calves.

MrsRaven profile image
MrsRaven in reply to

Right there with you. But the cramps pretty much disappeared when I started taking magnesium.

in reply toMrsRaven

Hi MrsRaven, so glad that magnesium is benefitting you. I've been taking it for over 2 years now, more to relieve constipation as magnesium citrate relaxes muscles and is a mild laxative. I'm still getting cramps especially in my toes, so not sure what to do next.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix

I can see that I have touched upon a very sensitive nerve with this post, thank you all so much for sharing on how you deal with foot pain and yet again how it is connected to hypothyroidism the illness that keeps on giving.

Treepie profile image
Treepie

Long before i was diagnosed i was experiencing pain on the sole where after i was diagnosed I came across a reflexology chart that associated that area with the thyroid.No longer have pain there but get it in big toes .Could be gout!

babsi profile image
babsi

i recently had to go down with my erfa, because one doctor insisted my tsh was too low , 0.01 .

i obliged, and immediately, like 2 weeks later, my feet started hurting again, really bad.

as soon i went back to my usual dose the pain subsided.

pebbles02 profile image
pebbles02

I had that, it was due to VitD defiency, since being put on vitD by the doctor my painful feet have gone. I know what you mean by being able to feel each individual bone hurting. I used to hobble like a 90 yr old to the bathroom each morning

5858 profile image
5858 in reply topebbles02

What dose of vitamin d like to give that a try? xo Susita

babsi profile image
babsi in reply topebbles02

i take plenty of vit D, my doc checks it regularly, and still my feet hurt when i´m underdosed

5858 profile image
5858

I also have plantar fasciitis. Wish I knew the answer I do know it started for me being on my feet and walking on rocks on a trip. But not like I never did that before......... with no problem .......so I wonder....... ever since all this thyroid mess. Is it some kinda weakness in my body. I have had it almost a year now. Mainly when I get up after laying down at night ......if I have been on my feet a lot ........I use a cane until it eases......I have been to a foot doctor did all the stretching ........wish I knew the answer.......guess I am not much help. All the best to you! Let us know if you have some relief! xo Susita

babsi profile image
babsi in reply to5858

try to raise your thyroid meds seems to be the answer, plus have your vit D checked.

5858 profile image
5858 in reply tobabsi

Thanks! Susita

Travelling profile image
Travelling

Hello Everyone, this is really interesting. I have had plantar fasciitis while my thyroid wasn't well medicated. It returns on and off now, I also get what I think is called "burning foot syndrome" which feels just like it says on the tin. The sole and under heel are very hot and itchy and burn.

I have some structural problems with my feet too, very flat feet with quite severe bunions, my big toe is starting to cross with the next one. I have some support from the local podiatry/ biomechanics service and have some reasonable insoles.

I understand that this can cause the plantar fasciitis due to the uneven stretch of the ligaments/tendons (not sure which) under the length of the foot. I have never had exercises suggested.

I was very deficient in Vit D and that was/is treated. Feet have improved since that.

I was also very anaemia and had an iron infusion, also improved the feet.

I don't know my Vit B12 status, GP is not interested ,that's my next battle!

Thanks for all the good ideas and advice, we need our feet so much!

5858 profile image
5858 in reply toTravelling

Maybe I will try the vitamin D. Thanks Susita

Minxie27 profile image
Minxie27

Hi , I have horrendous foot pain most of the time . It feels like someone has smashed a hammer on top of my foot especially my right foot even when I am sitting with them up and I often get what I call " fizzing " feeling on my soles . I am 59 and have trouble walking some days . I have zero confidence in my GP who blames everything on weight and lack of exercise . I take 125mg of levothyroxine daily which I think is ineffective on all levels as I crash in the afternoons and feel tired all the time . I am definatly going to take some vit D and B12 and see if this improves it at all . Very interesting reading all the posts ... onwards & upwards :)

in reply toMinxie27

Minxie27, I hear what you're saying! I actually gained 3 stones from being virtually immobile from extreme foot pain. I used to walk everywhere previous to this. It's so frustrating because the extra weight can't be helping my feet either.

humanbean profile image
humanbean

Plantar fasciitis (self-diagnosed) was one of my late-onset symptoms and it was one of the first to go when I improved my mineral and vitamin levels and started treating myself with T3.

When I woke up in the morning I couldn't touch my feet to the floor without pain, and I couldn't bend my ankles either. Going downstairs for breakfast was agony. It tended to wear off after an hour or so.

Before that I'd suffered with sore feet for decades, and was never able to tolerate high heeled shoes for any length of time. I remember I used to walk around the office in bare feet a lot of the time.

beaton profile image
beaton

Thanks Iphoenix for this post, and thanks to everyone who has commented on this post. I have learned a lot from it.

Travelling profile image
Travelling

Hello humanbean! I'm glad you mentioned ankles, I forget about those !

I get ankle pain too which I think is related for me to the fallen arches, but there are days when they are especially stiff and don't flex at all, it's like trying to walk with your feet stuck rigid to the bottom of your legs!

Very interested to hear that T3 helped, that's my next battle with the GP (after the B12!)

humanbean profile image
humanbean in reply toTravelling

Good luck. :)

Sopal profile image
Sopal

I've been using Fitflops. They've helped with the pain tremendously. I didn't realize the connection, but yesterday I didn't use them and my feet felt fine. I was surprised. I am so glad to know that could mean that my meds are finally at the proper levels for me.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix

Thanks to everyone for contributing to this post, I have definitely have evidence that painful feet are connected to hypothyroidism perhaps we just need to make all the medics out there that there is no doubt.

beaton profile image
beaton

Does anyone get pain in the tips of their toes ?

Wantie profile image
Wantie in reply tobeaton

I’ve just looked up pain in the tips of toes and seen your comment. Did you ever get to the bottom of what was causing it? Did you resolve it? I get shooting pains in the tips of different toes, it’s very odd and a bit disturbing as I can’t relate it to anything other than my Hashimoto condition. Hope you are well !

JanetteWebster profile image
JanetteWebster

Same here. For at least ten years I put all of my pain down to an injury I received in the forces which led to compartment syndrome. I have Suffered Achilles tendinitis, plantia facia, swelling feet and ankles and unable to walk on certain days. Got diagnosed PA last yr and for the past three months been on B12 injections every other day. I am not completely pain free but 100% better than what I was. X

Your sore feet could be due to a serious vitamin B12 deficiency. I had sore aching feet that were initially diagnosed as Plantar Fascaitis. but my feet did not improve with the orthotic soles recommended by the Rheumatologist (I was referred to!). Eventually I looked up burning feet on the internet and learned that the problem could be diabetes, hypothyroidism or B12 deficiency. The symptoms can be aching, numbness, tingling, burning etc. I could only walk for short distances before my feet started to get numb and sore. Vitamin B12 deficiency is usually due to a gut absorption problem which goes with Hashimotos Thyroiditis. I suggest you ask for a blood test. Your level should be at the top of the range. Ranges vary. The range at my local lab was 172- 600. My level was 85. However, any level below 500 is suspect. If you are deficient, your doctor should prescribe cobalamin (vit B12) injections. People with B12 and Hashimotos should have this injection every 3 months for life. If you diagnosed as deficient, you should have an injection every week for the first 3 months. Vitamin B12 deficiency left undiagnosed and treated, will eventually damage your nervous system permanently. The feet problem is caused by damage to the nerve coating around the nerves of the feet and is known as "peripheral neuropathy".

glo42 profile image
glo42

Iphoenix, I have an overactive thyroid condition and also am experiencing similar

pain in the soles of my feet. They are hot and burning on the soft pad near my toes. I don't think it is just a hypoactive condition. I know it's is not nice at all.

I do hope that your health and feet pain improve for you soon. Take care now.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix in reply toglo42

Hi Glo42,

I know it is way to early to tell but have been on T3 for 4 days now and my feet are not anywhere near as painful as they were. It could be a co-incidence but I am hoping it isn't. Thank you for your concern and I hope that you are not suffering, although I really have no idea what you are going through. I am going to check your profile to see if I can find out what your symptoms are.

SAMBS profile image
SAMBS

In relation to other replies you had Phoenix re Carpal Tunnel - read the following

Most cases of CTS are of unknown cause.[14] Carpal tunnel syndrome can be associated with any condition that causes pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. Some common conditions that can lead to CTS include obesity, hypothyroidism, arthritis, diabetes, prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance), and trauma.[15] The use of birth control pills does not affect the risk.[3] Carpal tunnel is also a feature of a form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome type 1 called hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies.....

that was extracted from Wikipedia search I just did on Carpal Tunnel and CMT.

I've just put a new post up earlier today titled "June results in - did my Dr listen to me"

I include C-M-T in some of MY replies to Clutter. You may or not, think some of above applies to you. At time I was replying to Clutter some of info I found I couldn't copy and paste at the time, fortunately on your post I have been able to.

Iphoenix profile image
Iphoenix in reply toSAMBS

Thanks SAMBS I think! I did see some symptoms in the CMT article that make me wonder:

'Symptoms and progression of the disease can vary. Involuntary grinding of teeth as well as squinting are prevalent and often go unnoticed by the person affected. Breathing can be affected in some; so can hearing, vision'

But overall I don't think I have CMT (phew what a relief).

As for carpal tunnel syndrome strangely enough I suffered with that for about 2 years in my late 20's when it just disappeared. I put that down to being a typist.

Thanks again for the info.

SAMBS profile image
SAMBS in reply toIphoenix

Pleased I could help with your queries in a small way. Glad you don't think you have it. Yes I do have the other symptoms balance and recurrent infections being the worst. but not teeth grinding. :-) I have already (last Dec) been told I have Thrombocytopenia, by a doctor here.

Hope the pain goes for you anyway. I was also a typist, had the had carpal tunnel, pressed down hard on it in centre of my hand, and the tendon snapped. Not knowing that was going to happen, it was like a cramp sensation, I thought pressing would just stop it happening. I used to be double jointed in my hands and feet as a kid, certainly not anymore given I'm almost 69 now.

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