Starting the New Year on the Right Foot: When to See a Podiatrist for Numbness or Burning

Approximately 96 million people living in the United States, or one-third of the population, said they wanted to prioritize their health and fitness in 2025. It’s safe to say that roughly the same number of people will be looking to improve their health in 2026, too.

Though most people focus on building muscle, eating healthier, or losing weight, good foot health deserves equal attention. This is especially important for people with diabetes or other chronic conditions that increase the risk of foot numbness or burning.

At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, podiatrist Angelo Morreale, DPM, specializes in managing foot pain. Keep reading to learn common causes of numbness and burning, when to see a podiatrist, and what to expect during treatment.

Common causes of foot numbness and burning

Almost everyone experiences foot pain occasionally, but symptoms such as numbness and burning often point to specific issues. These include:

Neuropathy (nerve damage) from diabetes or nerve conditions
Circulation problems, including peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Foot injuries, such as fractures or nerve compression

In addition to these medical causes, certain lifestyle factors can worsen foot numbness or burning. For example, wearing tight shoes that don’t provide enough room for your toes, or spending long hours on your feet, can worsen these symptoms. High-impact exercise, such as running and jumping, can also lead to burning and numbness.

Signs you should see a podiatrist

Most foot numbness and burning is mild and improves on its own with conservative care, such as rest, wearing more comfortable shoes, or activity changes. However, certain signs may indicate a more serious underlying issue.

Contact Dr. Morreale right away if you experience:

Persistent numbness or tingling that doesn’t improve within a few days
Burning sensations that worsen at night or during physical activity
Foot changes, such as skin discoloration, swelling, or sores that won’t heal
Loss of balance or coordination related to foot sensations

Even if you’re unsure about the severity of your symptoms, it’s important to reach out. Foot numbness and burning usually worsen over time, but prompt diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications and help you stay mobile.

What to expect during a podiatry visit

Dr. Morreale reviews your health records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a podiatry exam to determine what’s causing your foot numbness or burning. He also conducts nerve and circulation tests to assess your risk of diabetes, PAD, or related conditions.

After pinpointing the cause of your symptoms, Dr. Morreale makes custom treatment recommendations. Depending on your needs, he may suggest:

Diabetic foot care
Custom orthotics
Medication management
Lifestyle changes, such as eating a nutritious diet to support blood sugar and nerve health

Most people benefit from several treatment approaches. The goal is to minimize tingling, numbness, and burning, so you can move comfortably and confidently.

Are you experiencing burning or numb feet?

Burning or numb feet can be uncomfortable and increase your risk of slips, falls, and other injuries. However, various treatment options exist that can help you feel better. The sooner you address the problem, the better your outcome will be.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute by calling your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.