The Link Between Obesity And Foot Problems
Obesity is a serious health condition that affects many people in the UK. In fact, about 25% of adults are obese. Excessive fat accumulation can lead to many health problems, so it's important to take this condition seriously.
Are you wondering how healthy your weight is compared to your height? A great way to find out is by calculating your BMI. This will give you a good idea of where you stand and whether you need to start losing weight. Remember that calculating your BMI is just the beginning of your weight loss journey; it's important to focus on eating healthy and exercising regularly.
Excess weight means extra pressure!
Feet are delicate but strong, designed to support our bodies through all activities. They are often the first part of our body to show signs of injury or fatigue. By taking care of our feet, we can ensure that they can support us through all activities. This includes following a regular foot care routine and wearing proper shoes for the activities we engage in. However, they are vulnerable to excess weight and pressure on the feet. The more an individual weighs, the more strain their feet are under, which can cause developing foot problems.
Below are just some of the obesity-related foot problems.
Diabetic foot issues
Diabetes can be a dangerous condition. This, in turn, can lead to type 2 diabetes, which has even more health risks associated with it. Diabetes can reduce blood flow to your feet, making you less likely to notice an injury. This can lead to infections and nerve damage, which may cause deformities.
Gout
The cause of gout is the deposit of urate crystals in the joints, tendons and surrounding tissue. Uric acid is a waste product that is a byproduct of the body's breakdown of purines from certain foods. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted through the kidneys. This can be especially painful if the acid crystal build's up around the big toe.
Splayed feet
If you have splayed feet, you likely have an excess amount of weight and pressure on your feet. This makes them flatter and broader and weakens your foot's arches. Fallen arches can be very painful and may cause blisters, corns, and sores on your skin. You may also find that your shoes are too tight and cause discomfort.
Overpronation
As a result of having flattened arches, your feet may roll inward when you walk, causing problems. This is because the arches of your feet help to absorb the impact when your feet strike the ground.
If your feet are currently suffering from these types of problems, this could be a sign that you need to see a podiatrist. Feet are the foundation of the body, and problems with them can lead to issues further up the kinetic chain, such as the ankles and knees.
If you're struggling with obesity, consider talking to your podiatrist. Obesity can cause many foot problems, which can impact your mobility. Exercise is a crucial part of weight loss, so seek help from a charity such as Obesity UK.
If you're noticing problems with your feet due to obesity, an experienced chiropodist can help. They can determine the nature and severity of the issues and then provide solutions like exercises to reduce stiffness or orthotic insoles to correct abnormalities. This will help make movement more comfortable for you.
You can book an appointment online with ourselves to have your feet checked by a professional.
*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.