What Causes Itching in My Feet When They're Painful?
I’m a 24-year-old woman, approximately 5'4" tall and weighing around 235 pounds. I've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder type 1, obsessive-compulsive disorder, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and a combination of autism and ADHD. My current medications consist of Caplyta, Lamictal, Strattera, Zebeta, Claritin, and an over-the-counter prenatal vitamin for the benefits to my hair and nails, though I'm not currently expecting. For a bit of background, my occupation demands that I spend extended periods on my feet, sometimes stationary and other times active, which understandably leads to discomfort. However, I've noticed an unusual phenomenon: when my feet hurt, they also become itchy. This sensation is predominantly felt in my heels, with occasional spreading to the rest of the foot's sole. It’s the kind of itch that intensifies when scratched, making it all the more frustrating. Curiously, this itching only occurs alongside the pain. One detail I’d like to clarify is that I do not have diabetes, ruling that out as a possible cause. I’m curious to explore what other factors might be contributing to this issue. Any insights?
Answers (1)
2/18/2026, 12:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
Itching in your feet, especially when accompanied by pain, can be a frustrating experience, but it may have several underlying causes. Your situation suggests that the itching could be related to factors like nerve irritation, circulation issues, or skin conditions, particularly since you have a history of conditions that affect your vascular and nervous systems.
Explanation
When you spend extended periods on your feet, both pain and itching can arise due to increased pressure and possibly reduced blood flow to the area. Conditions like POTS can affect circulation, leading to symptoms like these. Itching often intensifies when skin is damaged or inflamed, which might occur if your feet are under strain and not adequately cared for.
Next Steps
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Foot Care Routine: Implement a daily foot care routine that includes soaking your feet in warm water and gentle exfoliation, followed by moisturizing with a fragrance-free lotion to prevent dryness and irritation.
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Footwear Check: Evaluate your footwear to ensure that it provides adequate support and cushioning. Shoes that are too tight or lack proper support could contribute to discomfort and itching.
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Position Changes: Alternate between sitting and standing when possible to relieve pressure on your feet. Consider elevating your feet during breaks to improve circulation.
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Cold Compresses: If the itching intensifies, applying a cold compress to the affected areas can provide temporary relief—this can numb the area and lessen the itchiness.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when the itching occurs, its severity, and any other factors (like weather or activity) that coincide with the symptoms. This record can help identify triggers.
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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, as dehydration can worsen circulation and skin hydration.
If the itchiness persists or worsens, or if you notice any new symptoms such as a rash or changes in skin color, it's advisable to seek further evaluation. This can help ensure that any underlying conditions are addressed appropriately.
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