Lose Weight to Improve Foot Health in the New Year
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Many patients will be starting the New Year with a resolution to lose a few pounds. Of course, you know that maintaining a healthy weight is good for your heart, but do you know that it's an essential part of foot health as well? Over a period of years, obesity causes excessive wear and tear on the bones, muscles, and tendons of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Numerous studies have found a direct link between increased BMI and painful foot conditions including arthritis, tendonitis and heel pain.
Diabetes
There is a clear correlation between obesity and type 2 diabetes; specifically, people who are overweight are at higher risk. That diabetes diagnosis puts you at higher risk of podiatric complications including leg and foot pain. Patients whose diabetes is not well managed may lose sensation in their legs and feet, leading to unhealed wounds and risk of infection. You can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by maintaining a healthy BMI.
Gout
Gout is an illness that develops when uric acid crystals accumulate in the bloodstream and settle in the joints. In the feet, this happens commonly in the knuckle of the big toe. Gout is a lifestyle disease: consuming large quantities of rich foods, shellfish, and alcohol can all trigger painful gout attacks. Numerous studies have determined that men and women who are overweight are more likely to develop gout. Losing weight will lower your risk.
Proper Foot Care
Patients who are very overweight sometimes find it hard to reach their feet to trim their toenails. Unfortunately, improper or haphazard trimming can result in ingrown toenails. You can prevent ingrown toenails and possible infection by seeing the foot doctor's office for regular trimming.
Plantar Fasciitis
Extra body weight puts an extra load on the feet and can trigger plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot. Excess weight is not the only cause of plantar fasciitis, but it does put you in a higher risk category. Be on the lookout for heel pain, especially in the morning. This is the most common symptom of plantar fasciitis.
Excess Weight and Foot Pain
Even relatively moderate physical activities can be challenging for overweight kids and adults. Exercise is an essential component of any weight loss plan, yet this discomfort makes overweight people exercise less likely to exercise and a cycle ensues. The lack of adequate exercise makes you gain even more weight, which increases the pain and keeps you from moving. Get some supportive new footwear and start with low-impact activities, such as walking, water aerobics, or gentle yoga. Sensible shoes made of breathable fabric and with a wide, low heel and a comfortable toe box can help you stand and walk without pain. If you're still in pain, custom orthotics prescribed by your podiatrist can help.
Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.