Millions of people all around the world are affected by obesity, a serious public health concern. It is characterized as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater and is linked to a number of health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint issues. The feet are one body part that is frequently impacted by obesity. This article will cover the impact of obesity on the health of the feet as well as preventative measures.
Although the feet are made to support the body's weight, carrying excessive weight causes additional pressure on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This may result in a number of foot issues, such as:
Plantar fasciitis
The disease known as plantar fasciitis results in inflammation of the band of tissue that runs down the sole of the foot, resulting in pain and discomfort in the heel and arch. Obesity can raise the risk of plantar fasciitis because the extra weight and pressure on the foot can overwork and irritate the tissue.
Flat foot
A condition known as flat feet, commonly referred to as fallen arches, occurs when the arch of the foot collapses, resulting in the whole sole of the foot touching the ground. Obesity can exacerbate flat feet because the extra weight might increase the arch's tension and lead it to collapse.
Heel pain
Overweight individuals frequently have heel pain because the extra weight can overwork and irritate the heel, which can result in pain and discomfort.
Nerve damage
Due to the strain the extra weight may impose on the nerves, which can result in them becoming compressed and inflamed, obesity can also raise the risk of nerve injury in the foot. As a result, the feet may experience tingling, numbness, and discomfort.
Obesity can make it more difficult to heal from foot injuries and operations in addition to these other foot issues. This is since carrying more weight and putting more strain on the feet can slow the healing process and make it more difficult to keep the injured area immobile while recovering.
What to do?
So what can you do if you're overweight or obese to lower your risk of foot issues? Here are some pointers to maintain your feet in good condition:
Keep a balanced diet
You may acquire and keep a healthy weight, which is necessary for good foot health, with the aid of a nutritious diet. Limit your consumption of processed and sugary foods and place a greater emphasis on eating a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Put on supportive footwear
Wearing footwear with enough arch support and cushioning can assist to evenly distribute weight over the feet and lessen strain on the ankles, lower legs, and feet.
Regular exercise
Regular exercise helps lower the chance of developing foot issues and preserve healthy feet. Try to include low-impact exercises like walking in your daily routine.
Reduce weight
The best strategy to lower the risk of foot issues brought on by obesity is to lose weight. Purpose for weight loss should be gradual and healthy, e.g., through food and exercise.
To alleviate foot issues brought on by obesity, surgery may occasionally be required. For instance, if you have plantar fasciitis and non-surgical therapies aren't working, your doctor may suggest surgery to release the tight fascia and lessen your pain and suffering. Similar to this, surgery can be required if you have nerve damage in your foot in order to decompress the nerves and alleviate the symptoms.
Tips
Obesity may have a significant influence on foot health, so it's crucial to take precautions to lower your risk of foot issues and maintain pain-free, healthy feet. If you're overweight or obese, your risk of foot issues can be decreased by decreasing weight, keeping up a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise. It's crucial to consult a doctor if you're having foot pain or discomfort to receive a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan. Even if you're overweight, you can maintain healthy, pain-free feet with the correct care and attention.