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Last updated: September 12, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Burning Sensation in Feet

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A common cause of burning sensation in the feet, especially in young adults. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of myelin, the fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers. A deficiency can lead to nerve damage, causing symptoms like burning sensations in the feet.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to the peripheral nerves can cause burning sensations in the feet. This can be due to various factors such as alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or certain medications.
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel can cause burning sensations, numbness, and tingling in the feet.
  • Hypothyroidism: Some people with hypothyroidism may experience burning sensations in their feet due to nerve damage or other mechanisms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Multiple Sclerosis: Although less common, multiple sclerosis can cause burning sensations in the feet due to demyelination of nerve fibers in the central nervous system.
  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause rapid onset of muscle weakness and burning sensations in the feet.
  • Heavy Metal Poisoning: Exposure to heavy metals like arsenic, lead, or mercury can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to burning sensations in the feet.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Fabry Disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause burning sensations in the feet due to the accumulation of a particular type of fat in the body's cells.
  • Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by chronic pain, inflammation, and sensitivity in one of the limbs, which can cause burning sensations in the feet.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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