Obesity is a worldwide health concern. Being obese, which means your body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher, is particularly troublesome for foot health. There is an important correlation between foot health and body weight, and obesity negatively impacts that relationship. Obesity can put excessive pressure on the feet and impact their functionality, while increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, flat feet, Achilles tendinitis and more. Obesity can also lead to arthritis and diabetes—both of which are known to create foot and ankle problems. If you are experiencing pain or reduced mobility in the feet due to obesity, call a podiatrist who may be able to create custom orthotics to redistribute weight more evenly across your feet, while easing foot pain, and helping you walk better.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Kevin Powers, DPM from The Center for Lower Extremity Nerve Surgery. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Indianapolis and Bloomington, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.