“Doctor, at night my feet burn like they are on fire, but they look completely normal.” This is a very common complaint, and it deserves a careful look.
What is neuropathy?
Nerves carry messages between the body and the brain. Over many years, high sugar can damage the long nerves that go to the feet and hands. The result may be tingling, burning, pins and needles, sharp pain, or numbness.
How it feels
- Burning or electric-shock pain, often worse at night.
- Numbness, like wearing socks when you are not.
- Not feeling heat, cold or small injuries.
- Weak or unsteady walking.
It is not always diabetes
Low vitamin B12, thyroid problems, alcohol, some medicines and spine problems can also cause similar symptoms. In fact, long-term use of metformin can lower B12 in some people. So your doctor may check B12, thyroid and other tests before deciding the cause.
What helps
The first step is steady sugar control. Many people feel better when sugar is stable. Your doctor can also suggest medicines for nerve pain, and B12 if you are low. Gentle walking, balance exercises and regular foot care all help.
What to avoid
Do not use hot-water bags or heaters on numb feet, because you may burn the skin without knowing. Do not treat the pain with strong painkillers on your own. Do not walk barefoot.
When to come early
If you have new numbness, a foot wound, or sudden weakness, please see a doctor soon. Early care protects both comfort and walking.
Simple tips for night-time burning
Many people find the pain is worst when they lie down and there is no distraction. A short, gentle walk in the evening, a loose cotton sock, and keeping the room cool can help some people. If pain stops your sleep for more than a few nights, please tell your doctor. Treatment for nerve pain is quite different from ordinary painkillers, and the right medicine can bring real relief. Do not stop or change your sugar tablets on your own while waiting for the pain to settle.
If you live in Gopanpally, Gowlidoddi, Nallagandla or Tellapur, or work in the Financial District or Nanakramguda, a simple blood sugar check is available at our clinic in Gopanpally, Gachibowli. You can read more about our diabetes care or contact us to book a visit.
Keep reading
Your family doctor,
Akhila Reddy
MBBS, DNB (Family Medicine) | TSMC Reg. No. APMC/FMR/74261
AMC Hospital, Gopanpally, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
This article is for general health education and does not replace a check-up. Every person is different, so please speak to your doctor before changing any medicine. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.
References
- American Diabetes Association. Retinopathy, Neuropathy, and Foot Care: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2025. Diabetes Care 2025;48(Suppl 1). https://diabetesjournals.org/care/issue/48/Supplement_1
- Pop-Busui R et al. Diabetic Neuropathy: A Position Statement by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care 2017;40(1):136-154.
- Aroda VR et al. Long-term metformin use and vitamin B12 deficiency in the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016;101(4):1754-1761.