Being overweight places extra stress on the feet with every step, and women can be especially affected as they get older. Added body weight increases pressure on foot joints, soft tissues, and the heel, which can lead to soreness, stiffness, or swelling. Pain often develops in areas that carry the greatest load, such as the ankles, midfoot, and toes. Wearing shoes with inadequate support, spending long hours standing, and wearing flip-flops can increase strain. Extra body weight can also change gait, causing the arch to flatten and increasing the pull on ligaments and tendons. This can interfere with walking and limit activity, creating a cycle where discomfort makes movement harder. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet, recommend better shoe choices, prescribe orthotics, or discuss additional treatment options. If you are experiencing foot pain linked to your weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe treatment.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Bazzi Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Detroit, West Detroit, Northwest Detroit, Sterling Heights, Hamtramck, Dearborn Heights, Madison Heights, Redford, and Livonia, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.