Since your feet feel the pressure of most of your body weight, being overweight can cause a variety of foot problems. Extra weight tends to bring the knees together, putting stress on the insides of the feet and arches. There are also several specific conditions that are known to be affiliated with additional weight. Gout causes severe pain in the big toe. It begins with an accumulation of uric acid in the body, which is more common for overweight individuals. You are also more likely to develop diabetes, which reduces blood flow to the feet. When you accumulate too much plaque in the arteries, you could develop peripheral arterial disease, which reduces blood flow to the feet as well. Losing weight is a practical way to avoid foot and ankle complications. If you feel that your weight may be affecting your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.