A chronic fiery feeling in the soles of the feet can certainly interfere with your workout. Burning sensations in the soles of the feet during cycling and other forms of exercise represent a common complaint among athletic types. Burning feet may relate to any number of causes including nerve compression, poorly fitting shoes or insufficient circulation. In more serious cases, burning soles of the feet may signal diabetes or kidney and liver complications.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
This syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes inflamed, swollen or pressured by the surrounding tendons and ligament structures. It can also develop as a result of scar tissue in the ankle or foot. Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include pain, burning sensations on the soles of the feet, and a tingling feeling on the bottom of the feet. Typically these symptoms intensify over the course of the day. Tarsal tunnel syndrome responds well to rest, ice, elevation and heat therapy, however, in more severe cases, surgery becomes necessary.
Peripheral Neuropathy
A burning sensation in the soles of the feet during cycling may also signal peripheral neuropathy. This condition presents as tingling, burning pain localized in the feet, which can progress in severity. Other symptoms include numbness, muscle weakness and difficultly with balance. Peripheral neuropathy occurs as a result of numerous triggers, including inadequate circulation, kidney or liver problems and vitamin deficiencies. Peripheral neuropathy often responds well to massage therapy.
Shoes
In some cases, burning soles of the feet simply means that your footwear needs to be replaced. If shoes are too tight, too old or lack sufficient cushioning, burning feet may result. Also, if your shoes do not provide enough ventilation for your feet while you cycle, you may also experience burning sensations in the soles of the feet due to a buildup of heat and sweat.
Warning
Burning sensations in the feet may also relate to more serious health complications. According to ePodiatry.com, the symptoms of burning feet may indicate heavy metal poisoning, pernicious anemia, or diabetes. Speak to your physician or health care provider if the burning in your feet during cycling persists despite medication and rest, ice, heat and elevation therapy.
References
- ePodiatry.com: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Fixing Your Feet: Prevention and Treatments for Athletes By John Vonhof
- ePodiatry.com: Burning Foot & Burning Feet



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