Burning Sensation in Multiple Sclerosis: A Practical Guide

If you have multiple sclerosis (MS) and suddenly feel a hot, tingling pain on your skin, you’re not alone. Many people with MS describe a "burning" sensation that can show up in the arms, legs, or even the torso. It’s a type of neuropathic pain that comes from nerve damage caused by the disease.

First, understand that the burning feeling isn’t a sign of infection or a new illness – it’s the nervous system reacting to the damage MS does. Demyelination, the loss of protective coating around nerve fibers, lets abnormal signals travel, and those signals often feel like heat or pins and needles.

Why Does the Burning Sensation Happen?

When myelin is stripped away, the nerve fibers become exposed. The exposed fibers fire off random electrical impulses that the brain interprets as pain. This is why the sensation can appear suddenly, or after a flare‑up of other MS symptoms. It can also be triggered by temperature changes, stress, or even a tight piece of clothing rubbing the skin.

Another common culprit is “cortical spreading depression,” a wave of electrical activity that sweeps across the brain and can create a burning feeling in the body. This phenomenon is still being studied, but it explains why some people get a fleeting zap of heat that fades within minutes.

Managing the Burn: Practical Tips

1. Talk to your neurologist. They can confirm whether the burning is MS‑related and rule out other causes like shingles or peripheral neuropathy.

2. Medication options. Anticonvulsants such as gabapentin or pregabalin are often prescribed for MS‑related neuropathic pain. Some doctors also use low‑dose antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) to calm nerve signals.

3. Heat and cold therapy. A warm bath or a cool compress can temporarily ease the sensation. Experiment with what feels better for you—just avoid extreme temperatures that might worsen the nerves.

4. Stay active. Gentle stretching, yoga, or a short walk keeps blood flowing and can reduce nerve irritation. Even a few minutes a day makes a difference.

5. Mind‑body techniques. Deep breathing, mindfulness, or guided imagery helps lower stress, which often fuels burning pain. Apps or short videos can guide you through a quick session.

6. Check your footwear and clothing. Tight socks, shoes, or seams can press on sensitive nerves. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics and shoes with good arch support.

7. Track triggers. Keep a simple diary noting when the burning starts, what you ate, your stress level, and any recent activity. Over time you’ll spot patterns and can avoid known triggers.

8. Nutrition matters. Some people find relief by boosting omega‑3 fatty acids (found in fish oil or flaxseed) and staying hydrated. While food won’t cure the burning, it can support overall nerve health.

If the burning sensation becomes severe, spreads rapidly, or is accompanied by weakness, vision changes, or loss of bladder control, call your doctor right away. Those could be signs of a more serious MS relapse.

Living with MS means learning to listen to your body. The burning sensation is just one of many ways your nerves communicate that something’s off. By staying proactive, using the right meds, and adding a few lifestyle tweaks, you can keep the heat under control and focus on the things you enjoy.