Obesity Foot Problems: How Your Weight Can Affect Your Feet

Bearing the weight of our entire body, our feet play a big role in our day-to-day activities. It’s no surprise that the higher our BMI (Body mass index), the more likely and the more severe obesity foot problems can be. Studies suggest that as obesity becomes more prevalent in America, so does foot and ankle injury. Even moderate weight gain can create problems due to the fact that severe ankle fractures tend to be higher in the fibula, above the level of the ankle joint. There are a few specific foot problems that can come from obesity.

Gout- According to the National Institutes of Health, being overweight makes an individual more likely to develop gout by increasing the production of uric acid in the body. The result is swelling in the hands and feet, accompanied by severe pain.

Diabetes-Diabetes is very common amongst people who are overweight. Diabetes can cause dumbness in the feet as well as reduce the amount of blood flow to extremities. In severe cases, amputation of the foot or leg may be required if the disease isn’t controlled by insulin and diet.

Peripheral arterial disease- Peripheral arterial disease is caused by an accumulation of plaque in the walls of arteries in the legs. This reduces the flow of blood to the feet.

Don’t ever let fear of foot injury keep you from being active. If you struggle with obesity ask your doctor about low impact exercises that can help you lose weight without injury. Click here to request an appointment with one of our podiatrists if you have foot problems or pain associated with your weight!

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