November 2017

There are a number of health conditions that are affiliated with obesity. Swollen feet and varicose veins are common in obese people. Additionally, painful conditions such as cracked heels can also occur from obesity due to excessive pressure on the area. Obesity generally also contributes to diabetes, which can affect the nerves in the feet. Subsequently, patients are often unable to feel cuts or blisters, which may lead to foot ulcers. Poor balance may occur as a result of strained walking, which typically leads to falls and injury. Additionally, flat feet can develop, which may lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Following a healthy diet that is low in sugar may help control obesity. Maintaining a regular exercise program will aid in keeping obesity under control. Typically, obesity leads to feet that are wider than average, so look for shoes that fit properly. A podiatrist can conduct a foot examination and provide tips on obesity and how it affects the feet.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a condition caused by the tearing and inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue in the bottom of the foot, is a relatively common foot problem. Symptoms are characterized by pain in the heel of the foot. If you are experiencing plantar fasciitis, it may hurt in the morning when you take your first steps. Anti-inflammatory medication may help reduce the pain and inflammation, and rest is a good way to help treat the condition. However, it is recommended to see a podiatrist who can diagnose and provide more thorough care. A podiatrist may offer custom-made orthotics to help provide cushion and support for the foot. A change in footwear can also help as well, as can losing weight if you are overweight. If you stand a lot for your job, it is advised that you take more breaks to help take the pressure off your feet throughout the day.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Some people who run barefoot feel like wearing shoes hamper their natural stride and can even cause pain. The heels strike the ground first for runners who wear shoes. This may produce a force of up to three times the body’s weight, which can lead to stress fractures and discomfort. Running barefoot generally causes the runner to land on the ball of the foot, generating less impact on the body. One advantage that barefoot runners have are shortened strides. This reduces the impact on their lower bodies. Because of this, landing becomes softer on hard surfaces. The feet may also be over-supported in running shoes. This may result in weaker muscles, because they’re not working as hard. While barefoot running may be acceptable for some, it is not for everybody. Consult with a podiatrist before you decide to try this form of exercise.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

• Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
• Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

• When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced; this can reduce stress injuries.
• It strengthens muscles in the feet, ankles and lower legs.
• Balance of the body is improved, and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

• No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
• Blisters may form.
• Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
• Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So, what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.