Burning, numbness, and tingling in the feet
These sensations are often described as pins and needles, burning, prickling, or reduced feeling. One common cause is peripheral neuropathy, in which nerves in the feet and legs become damaged. Diabetes is a major cause, but it isn’t the only one. NIDDK+1
Possible causes
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Diabetes or high blood sugar
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Vitamin B12 deficiency
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Kidney or thyroid disease
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Alcohol-related nerve damage
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Certain medications or chemotherapy
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Nerve compression or other neurological conditions
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Some circulation problems
Peripheral neuropathy often affects both feet and can be worse at night. NIDDK
When you should get checked
Persistent or worsening burning, numbness, or tingling deserves medical evaluation—especially if you’re also experiencing weakness, balance problems, unexplained weight loss, or sores on your feet.
A clinician may check blood glucose/HbA1c, vitamin B12, thyroid and kidney function, examine circulation and sensation, and order nerve testing when appropriate. NIDDK+1
If you have numb feet, inspect them every day for blisters, cuts, redness, swelling, or wounds because reduced sensation can allow injuries to go unnoticed. NIDDK
Seek urgent care for a suddenly cold, pale/blue, severely painful foot, rapidly developing weakness, or a wound that is becoming red, hot, swollen, foul-smelling, or black.
If you tell me whether the burning/tingling is in one foot or both, how long you’ve had it, and whether you have diabetes, I can help narrow down the most likely causes.
