Hypothyroid Foot Pain

Hypothyroidism causes the body's systems to slow down because the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. People experience fatigue, slowed heart rate and constipation due to the lack of hormones. Hypothyroidism causes conditions such as tendinitis, carpal tunnel, weak muscles and cramped muscles. Some people also experience foot pain due to slowing systems caused by hypothyroidism. There are a couple of different reasons for this type of foot pain.

Joint Pain

One cause of hypothyroid-induced foot pain is joint pain. Tarsal tunnel syndrome commonly affects those with hypothyroidism, according to the website Thyroid-Info. This is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, but it inflicts the feet. It causes tingling and pain around the foot’s arch. Sometimes, in more extreme cases, the pain extends to the toes and lower leg. Hypothyroidism causes the joints to ache, but not the muscles. Muscle pain typically indicates another cause, states Thyroid-Info.

Grierson-Gopalan Syndrome

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Grierson-Gopalan syndrome also causes foot pain in people with hypothyroidism. Another name for this condition is “burning feet syndrome." The feet ache and the skin temperature actually elevates, states the Dr. Foot website. Also, people notice more foot sweating than normal. Usually, people notice the burning sensation on the bottoms of their feet, but some also feel the pain in their ankles and lower legs. Other diseases that cause Grierson-Gopalan syndrome include rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, both causing nerve compression.

Cause

People with hypothyroidism tend to experience water retention and swelling due to slower blood circulation and heart rhythm. This swelling puts pressure on the nerves and causes both tarsal tunnel syndrome and Grierson-Gopalan syndrome, according to Dr. Foot and Thyroid-Info.

Diagnosis

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Diagnosing the cause of foot pain related to hypothyroidism takes special skill. Typically, the blood vessels and skin appear normal. Usually, doctors notice water retention and edema of the feet and ankles. Also, with burning feet syndrome, the skin should feel warm to the touch, according to Dr. Foot.

Relief

People with hypothyroid-induced foot pain generally need doctor-prescribed medication to regulate hormone levels. The foot pain, however, typically improves with breathable, comfortable shoes with arch supports. People with burning feet syndrome may find comfort soaking their feet in cool water for about 15 minutes and taking vitamin B supplements, recommends Dr. Foot. If foot pain continues even after doctor-prescribed hyperthyroid treatment, alert your practitioner. The pain may indicate inadequate hypothyroid treatment or possibly fibromyalgia, according to Thyroid-Info.