We’ve all heard that being obese is detrimental to your overall health, but did you know that being obese can hurt your feet, too? Multiple studies have found an association between increased weight and foot problems. The extra weight puts added pressure on your feet, leading to more wear and tear and increasing the risk of developing foot conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and heel pain. What is the solution? Weight loss. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, especially when foot pain prevents you from exercising. If you are experiencing any foot condition and worry that your weight is causing or contributing to the pain, seeing a podiatrist can help. A podiatrist can prescribe orthotics to make walking and exercising easier, diagnose and treat any foot conditions, and offer prevention strategies to help keep you healthy and on your feet.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
