Foot Problems and Obesity
According to several studies, the likelihood of experiencing foot discomfort increases as the body mass index increases. Those who are obese are more susceptible to foot pain in comparison to those who keep a healthy weight.
Adults frequently complain about foot pain. The stress on your ankles and feet can increase drastically by just adding on a pound or two, as the load your feet support increases.
A variety of foot and ankle issues can result from this increasing stress:
- Plantar Fasciitis
A rising body mass index is closely correlated with both general foot discomfort and heel pain, as the plantar fascia that runs under the feet becomes inflamed due to excessive stress. This inflammation is brought on by the additional weight that the feet carry while carrying out regular tasks. Many overweight people report experiencing heel pain, which can result in plantar fasciitis.
- Foot Deformity
Elevated plantar pressure and low arch are correlated with obesity. Standing and walking are significantly influenced by the shape of your foot. Body stability and foot posture alignment are impacted by overweight BMI.
- Flat Feet
Obese individuals have flatter feet, a smaller range of motion and a high tendency of plantar issues. Over time you develop falling arches or overpronation (when your feet roll inwards) and flat feet.
- Aging and Obesity
As you age, there is more wear and tear on your feet. Combining that with obesity, the damage to your feet is immense. If not taken care of in time, the problems that arise will restrict your mobility and quality of life.
- Diabetes and Obesity
Type 2 diabetes may result from the buildup of excess body fat. Evidence suggests that the rate of type 2 diabetes has increased as the obesity rate has increased on a global scale. We all know how harmful diabetes is to your foot health. With poor blood circulation and nerve damage, your feet are likely to suffer if care is not exercised in a timely manner.
Your podiatrist may be the strongest supporter of your weight loss efforts. Exercise is suggested as well, such as walking, in addition to modifying your diet. Pain in the feet can make this challenging. To keep you walking and assist you in achieving your goals, podiatrists can offer advice on stretching exercises, shoe choice and even orthotics.
The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, have unparalleled experience treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. Our team of doctors: Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACFAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., is dedicated to serving you with state-of-the-art, cutting edge medical technologies, including the PinPointe FootLaser, custom-fitted orthotics, and Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) for chronic foot, heel, or ankle pain. If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.
