One vitamin that often gets mentioned is vitamin B12, because:
- A deficiency can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
- It may also lead to burning sensations, poor balance, muscle weakness, and memory or mood changes.
- Older adults are at higher risk because absorption of B12 can decrease with age, and some medications (such as metformin or acid-reducing medicines) can reduce absorption.
If a B12 deficiency is confirmed, treatment with B12 supplements or injections can improve symptoms, especially if started early. However, nerve damage that has been present for a long time may not fully recover.
Other possible causes of tingling or burning hands and feet
These symptoms are much more commonly caused by a range of conditions, including:
- Diabetes (one of the most common causes)
- Nerve compression (such as carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Peripheral artery disease
- Alcohol-related nerve damage
- Thyroid disorders
- Side effects of certain medications
- Other vitamin deficiencies or excesses (for example, too much vitamin B6 can also cause nerve damage)
When to seek medical advice
If you develop:
- Persistent tingling, numbness, or burning.
- Weakness in your hands or feet.
- Problems with balance or walking.
- Symptoms that are getting worse.
A healthcare professional may recommend blood tests (such as vitamin B12, blood glucose, thyroid function, and others) or additional tests to determine the cause.
Bottom line
If the headline is referring to vitamin B12, there is good evidence that treating a true B12 deficiency can help prevent or improve nerve damage. However, taking high-dose vitamin supplements without knowing the cause of your symptoms is unlikely to help and may sometimes be harmful. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause of the nerve symptoms.
