How Your Weight Affects Your Feet

As your body weight increases, plantar pressure increases as well, overloading plantar tissue leading to pain. Increase body weight is associated with an increase load bearing capacity of your feet, which increase in heel plantar pressure. It was also found that obese individuals typically have flatter feet, reduced inversion-eversion range of motion, and higher peak plantar pressures. Because weight can add pressure, it can change the shape and size of your feet. 

Obesity is linked to many chronic diseases such as hypertension, type 2 Diabetes, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, and various types of cancer. Diabetes and arthritis can affect the feet.

Here is a list of weight-related foot conditions to look out for:

• Bone spurs

• Gout

• Tendon inflammation

• Osteoarthritis

• Plantar fasciitis

• Flat feet

 Look into getting orthopaedic shoes if you have weight-related foot conditions. These shoes have a various benefits such as: removable insoles, performance midsole, protective interior, extra sizing options, etc. Consider getting these shoes for indoor use as well so that they can help with your arch support, pressure distribution and foot alignment.

At River Podiatry, our team is ready to help you address your foot issues. Set up an appointment today to speak with our team of trusted foot health professionals.