Obesity is a growing problem in the world population, currently affecting 34% of Canadian adults. Excess weight puts increased pressure on the joints of the legs and feet, leading to various foot problems.
This article explores common foot conditions related to being overweight and their treatments.
Adult Acquired Flatfoot (AAFD)
Adult acquired flatfoot is characterized by a sagging or absent arch in the foot, which can develop later in life even without birth defects. Excess weight increases pressure on foot tendons and arches, causing them to weaken and flatten.
Signs include:
- Sagging arch;
- Pain in knees, hips, and ankles;
- Imbalance on uneven surfaces;
- Inward-facing heels and knees;
- Lumbar pain;
- Inability to stand on tiptoe;
- Swelling of the outer ankle;
- Duck-like gait.
Treatments include orthotics, muscle-building programs, and orthopedic footwear prescribed by podiatrists.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis involves rupture or stretching of the plantar fascia, the tissue under the foot, resulting in impaired shock absorption. Excess weight significantly increases strain on this tissue, leading to foot pain.
Symptoms are:
- Foot pain worsening with movement;
- Swelling of foot and tendons;
- Pain when heel hits the ground;
- Appearance of heel spurs.
Treatment options include foot orthoses, cortisone injections, manual therapy, therapeutic tape, night braces, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and foot immobilization.
Osteoarthritis of the Foot
Excess weight exerts additional stress on joints, especially ankles and knees, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, grinding sensations, instability, and reduced mobility.
Podiatrists may offer ultrasound-guided cortisone injections and prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms.
Custom Orthotics to Relieve Foot Pain Due to Excess Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce foot problems, but in some cases, additional intervention is needed.
Podiatrists can provide relief by prescribing custom foot orthoses that address foot pain caused by overweight or obesity.
Concerned about your foot health? Contact a PiedReseau clinic today.