How Being Overweight Harms Your Feet and Ankles

Obesity — which health professionals mark as a body mass index of 30 or more — is an increasingly common problem across the country. That’s particularly true in Texas.

You probably already know that excess weight can put you at a greater risk for a number of serious health conditions. But even if you never develop, say, heart disease, the extra weight you’re carrying around can take a toll on your body. 

In fact, the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons® says that every pound of weight puts as much as eight pounds of pressure on your hips, knees, and ankles. 

If you’re dealing with extra weight, our team here at North Central Texas Foot & Ankle can help. At our offices in Roanoke and Decatur, Texas, Samantha Childers, DPM, and Ricky Childers, DPM, treat some of the most common problems that can arise, like heel pain and Achilles tendon pain. Our goal is to provide effective treatment so you can stay on your feet and stay active, helping you move toward a healthier weight. 

For some added motivation, let’s look at the foot and ankle problems that can crop up as a result of excess weight. 

Wear-and-tear problems

The added weight you’re carrying around taxes your feet and ankles. The support structures that keep you upright and mobile — from your bones and cartilage to your tendons and ligament — get put under added strain.

Over time, that can lead to a number of problems. One of the more common weight-related foot problems includes Achilles tendonitis, which causes pain in your calf and/or heel. 

People who are overweight are also more likely to deal with plantar fasciitis, which causes a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel or the bottom of your foot. 

Additionally, over time, the wear and tear caused by extra pounds can lead to osteoarthritis. 

Diabetes

Beyond the wear-and-tear damage being overweight can cause, added weight heightens your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. And one of the most common complications of this type of diabetes is foot ulcers. 

Type 2 diabetes can limit blood flow to your feet. As a result, you might not notice wounds as they develop. At the same time, they’ll be slower to heal. Ultimately, once you’re diagnosed with this type of diabetes, your feet will need continued monitoring and care. 

Fortunately, we can help. We have specialized experience treating foot and ankle wounds, including diabetic ulcers. 

Whether you need care for a foot or ankle problem that already exists or you want help by giving your feet proper support to avoid problems down the road, we’re here. Call or message one of our offices to schedule an appointment.