Foot Pain and Obesity

Obesity is a serious problem in America for both children and adults. Weight gain can lead to other problems in the body such as heart disease, diabetes and foot pain. Indeed, as Americans get heavier they are literally crushing their feet.

Studies show that foot and ankle problems can be linked to a person's weight and body mass index (BMI). People who have a higher BMI have a significant increase in foot and ankle problems.

While foot problems in obese people vary, foot and ankle pain often occurs in weight bearing areas, including tendons and ligaments. Common foot problems include posterior tibial tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and arthritis.

Studies show that pressure and foot pain in the ball of the foot is far greater in obese people. In addition, obesity damages the joints of the foot and ankle. People carry approximately four to six times their body weight on the ankle when climbing up stairs or walking on inclines.

Obesity increases the stress and strain on the foot undergoes as it supports the body during walking and standing. The heel takes on more pressure, the arch and sides of the feet stretch out more, there is foot pain on side of foot, bones are more apt to develop stress cracks and shoes don't fit as well.

In time, if the structures within the foot are not relieved from this excessive weight and pressure, they will "give," allowing the bones and joints of the feet to shift and collapse, causing the arch to become flat.

When the arch is flat, or has collapsed, it cannot function properly. Without treatment, this will lead to a completely collapsed foot, which cannot function as a shock absorber for the rest of the body. This foot pain in the arch can lead to chronic pain in the shin, knee, hip, and lower back.

Foot pain and obesity can actually create a vicious cycle. Foot pain can increase obesity when it limits a person's ability to exercise. The foot pain and obesity cycle will make weight loss difficult, if not impossible.

There are several ways to lose weight without placing undue strain on your foot. Swimming, for example, is an excellent exercise that places no pressure on the foot. In fact, most water-related sports or activities would fall under this category. Changes in one's diet can also contribute to weight loss.

Most importantly, though, you should always consult an experienced foot specialist if you are experiencing any pain in your foot. Pain in the foot indicates some type of stress or injury and needs to be examined. Foot pain is never normal, regardless of weight.

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