Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B5
For the health condition: Burning Feet or Hands
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) has traditionally been used to address symptoms of burning feet or hands, a condition sometimes referred to as "burning feet syndrome" or Grierson-Gopalan syndrome. Historical accounts, particularly from the early to mid-20th century, noted that burning sensations in the extremities were observed in populations with diets low in B vitamins, including prisoners of war and those with severe malnutrition. In several case series and small studies from that era, supplementation with B vitamins, particularly B5, appeared to relieve symptoms in some individuals. The rationale was that pantothenic acid deficiency could contribute to peripheral neuropathy, leading to burning sensations. However, robust scientific validation is lacking. Modern research has not provided high-quality, controlled trials confirming the efficacy of vitamin B5 supplementation for burning feet or hands, except in cases of clear dietary deficiency. Most contemporary guidelines do not recommend vitamin B5 for neuropathic pain unless deficiency is documented. The evidence supporting its use is therefore rated as 2—based on historical and anecdotal reports rather than strong clinical trials. In summary, while there is a traditional basis for using vitamin B5 to treat burning feet or hands, scientific evidence is limited and largely historical.
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B5
AcneBurning Feet or Hands
Burns and Scalds
Canker Sores
Cholesterol (high)
Convalescence
Cuts
Dermatitis
Energy (lack of)