Foot Pain and Weight Gain

Men and women who are getting heavier are also crushing their feet. Studies have linked foot and ankle problems to a person’s weight and BMI or body mass index.  Those with high BMI have a substantial increase in foot and ankle problems.  Note that the added weight doesn’t need to be too big a number for it to have an impact and even five to ten pounds  may be enough to start a foot problem.

 Foot and ankle pain is usually felt in weight bearing areas and in the tendons and ligaments because added weight alters the way a foot functions.  The extra body weight can put increased pressure on the bottom of the foot, flattening it, and shortening your gait.

Some of the common foot problems linked with weight gain are plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial tendonitis, arthritis, fractures and sprains, and ball-of-foot pains. The joints of your foot and ankle can easily be damaged by extra weight. What is more concerning is how foot and ankle problems can even  be effected by a person’s weight gain, because it can  make exercising painful and challenging. A great way to start losing those extra pounds would be to address the foot pain that is caused by higher than average body weight.

There is more force on your feet and tension on your plantar fascia when you are overweight. That is why advanced heel pain treatments may be required. Make sure you consider it when you are looking into a treatment plan for your symptoms.

A treatment plan may include:

• Custom Foot Orthotics
• Change in Footwear
• Stretching and Specific Strengthening Exercise
• Anti-inflammatory Medication
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Custom Foot Orthotics Can Make a Big Difference

Foot orthotics can help lessen the abnormal force on your feet and even prevent foot problems if you are carrying excess weight and trying to lose it. A controlling and firm foot orthotic is needed to support the forces that are caused by that extra weight. Additionally, the orthotic offers shock absorption, decreasing the stress on your joints and preventing arthritis.  In order to provide support,   the orthotic arch needs to   match your foot’s arch. Of course, the orthotic needs to be really comfortable as well.

The Right Walking Shoes Can Help

You are going to need walking shoes that offer extra support if you are thinking of getting more active and losing the extra weight. The walking shoes should have heels that are stable and that won’t twist so easily. A really stable shoe can greatly reduce the foot pain, allowing you to walk and exercise longer without injuring yourself.

If you are experiencing foot pain   do not delay seeking treatment. Call us for an appointment and we will develop a treatment plan that is most appropriate for you.