Lupus and Burning Feet - Understanding the Connection and Finding Relief

Understanding the Link Between Lupus and Burning Feet

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause a wide array of symptoms. For some with lupus, burning sensations in the feet can be one of the more painful and disruptive manifestations. What connects lupus and burning feet? And how can this symptom be managed?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs in the body. This can lead to widespread inflammation and a variety of signs and symptoms.

There are several types of lupus. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the most common, potentially causing issues in any system or part of the body. Other forms include cutaneous lupus (skin) and drug-induced lupus.

Common Symptoms of Lupus

Lupus symptoms can vary significantly between individuals based on the areas of the body impacted. Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
• Skin rashes and lesions
• Fever, fatigue, and weakness
• Chest pain when breathing deeply
• Hair loss and mouth sores
• Headaches, memory issues, mood changes
• Numbness, tingling, and pain in extremities

Symptoms may be mild or severe, come and go in flares, and new ones can develop over time as different parts of the body are affected.

What Causes Burning Feet with Lupus?

Several different lupus-related factors can contribute to burning sensations in the feet:

• Inflammation and damage to peripheral nerves
• Reduced blood flow to the extremities
• Side effects of certain lupus medications
• Injuries or compression from foot problems
• Vasculitis - inflammation of blood vessels

nerve damage and circulatory impairment are two of the most common causes of burning, tingling feet associated with lupus.

Lupus Diagnosis and Burning Feet

There is no single test that definitively diagnoses lupus. Doctors must examine symptoms and test results including:

• Medical history and physical exam
• Bloodwork checking for autoantibodies
• Urine tests for protein, cell counts
• Imaging tests - x-rays, CT scan
• Skin or kidney biopsy

Reporting burning feet along with other symptoms can help doctors diagnose lupus more accurately and promptly.

Treatments for Lupus-Related Burning Feet

While burning feet cannot be cured in lupus, several approaches help manage symptoms:

• Medications - corticosteroids, immunosuppressants
• Lifestyle changes - rest, reduced stress, gentle exercise
• Physical therapy and orthotics
• Alternative therapies - acupuncture, massage
• Neuropathic pain medications
• Surgery for compressive injuries

A combination of medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and pain relief options often provides the best results.

Coping with Burning Feet from Lupus

Living with burning, tingling feet from lupus can be challenging. Some tips to help manage this symptom include:

Get Proper Footwear

Wear well-cushioned shoes with ample toe room to avoid compression and rubbing. Orthotics can provide arch support and minimize impact. Limit high heels and bare feet when possible.

Keep Feet Protected

Wear socks and tights to keep feet warm and insulated. Use sunscreen outside to prevent burns that could aggravate nerve pain. Check shoes for objects and avoid going barefoot to prevent injury.

Soak in Cool Water

Take occasional foot baths in cool water for soothing relief. Epsom salt, menthol, lavender oil or other additives can enhance the benefits.

Massage and Stretch Feet

Gentle foot massages, toe stretches, and range of motion exercises improve circulation. Avoid aggressive rubbing which could irritate nerves.

Elevate Legs

Rest feet above heart level periodically throughout the day. This improves blood flow and reduces swelling that can put pressure on nerves.

Try Cold and Heat Therapy

Alternate cold packs and warm baths or heating pads to alleviate burning pain. Use caution with heat if you have reduced sensation.

Ask About Medications

Discuss prescription or over-the-counter medications to relieve nerve pain, swelling, and numbness. Topical creams, oral drugs, or nerve block injections may help.

Be patient in finding the right treatments to provide relief. Report any worsening or new symptoms promptly to your rheumatologist.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Lupus Foot Problems

Certain lifestyle adjustments can also help minimize burning feet flare-ups:

Exercise Regularly

Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and stretching increase blood flow. Avoid exercising feet when in pain.

Lose Excess Weight

Carrying extra weight worsens impact and pressure on feet. Losing even 5-10% of body weight makes a difference.

Stop Smoking

Smoking worsens circulation while increasing lupus severity. Quitting improves blood flow.

Limit Alcohol

Heavy alcohol consumption can interact with lupus medications and exacerbate symptoms. Moderation is key.

Care for Feet Proactively

Inspect feet daily and treat corns, calluses, infections promptly. Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails.

Control Blood Sugar

High blood glucose from diabetes or lupus-related insulin resistance can damage nerves. Managing glucose helps.

Staying generally healthy helps reduce lupus flares and improve your ability to cope with symptoms like burning feet when they do occur.

When to See a Doctor for Burning Feet with Lupus

Consult your rheumatologist or doctor if you experience:

• Burning, stabbing pains not relieved by self-care
• Numbness or complete loss of sensation
• Discoloration or temperature changes in feet
• Tingling, weakness, or heaviness in legs
• Burning that worsens at night
• Swelling, skin cracks, ulcers, or infections

Severe, worsening, or new nerve symptoms warrant medical evaluation. Prompt treatment prevents permanent nerve damage and disability.

Living with Lupus-Related Burning Feet

Burning, stinging sensations in the feet can be one of the more disruptive lupus symptoms. While the condition cannot be cured, a variety of at-home remedies, lifestyle changes, medications, alternative therapies, and orthotic or podiatric interventions can help manage discomfort.

Working closely with your healthcare providers allows you to establish an integrated treatment plan. This improves overall lupus control and allows you to better cope with symptoms like burning feet when they occur.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.