The foot is comprised of 26 bones, 33 joints, 112 ligaments and a large number of blood vessels, nerves and tendons that, the American College of Podiatric Sports Medicine explains, work together to enable the movement of your feet, including during exercise. Given this complex structure, burning on the bottoms of your feet can result from a number of causes and conditions. Consult your doctor for professional diagnosis and treatment advice if the burning persists or worsens.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma occurs when the nerves in your feet become compressed or irritated. This condition is a thickening of the nerve tissues, most commonly between your third and fourth toes. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include pain, tingling, inflammation and burning on the soles of your feet. Morton's neuroma rarely requires surgery and is typically treated with medication and orthotic devices. Left untreated, however, Morton's neuroma can lead to permanent nerve damage, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons warns.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is commonly marked by pain, inflammation and burning on the balls of your foot. Individuals who are physically active -- particularly in forms of exercise that involve a lot of running or jumping -- and those who wear ill-fitting shoes are most likely to develop this condition. Metatarsalgia can make exercising painful. This condition can temporarily sideline you from exercise and athletic participation, but can be treated conservatively. Treatments include ice, rest, wearing proper footwear or using arch supports.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of your plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that extends from your heels to your toes. This can result in pain or burning on the bottoms of your feet. Plantar fasciitis often occurs in people with flat feet or those with high arches as well as those who wear non-supportive footwear. This condition can normally be treated conservatively with stretching, ice, activity modification, ant-inflammatory medication or arch supports. For severe pain, surgery may be required, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons notes.
Improper Footwear
In addition to potentially contributing to the aforementioned conditions, improper footwear can itself be a cause of burning in your feet during. This may be due a lack of ventilation, which can cause your feet to overheat; shoes that are worn or do not fit properly can also cause foot burning. Buy athletic shoes should fit based on your foot structure, how your foot functions, the types of activities your participate in and your weight. Shoes should fit snugly and have adequate shock absorption to prevent your feet from burning. You should also wear socks made of a moisture-wicking material instead of cotton. Purchase athletic shoes at a specialty store where qualified sales associates can help you find the proper shoe and ensure a correct fit.
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