Your Weight Can Affect Foot and Ankle Health

Your feet have an important job to do. They support your body as you stand, walk, and move through all the activities of your daily life. When your feet hurt or are injured, or fall victim to an illness, it can be hard to do all the things you like to do. You must take active steps to care for your feet, ankles, and lower legs. One of the most important things you can do to protect your foot health is to maintain a moderate weight.

Numerous studies have concluded that excess weight and obesity are related to a wide range of foot and ankle injuries and illnesses including:

• inflammation and arthritis

• plantar fasciitis

• Achilles tendonitis

Diabetes is a particular risk for people who carry extra pounds. In your body, there is a gland called the pancreas that is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that regulates levels of blood glucose. When you have diabetes, the pancreas fails in part or in full. Blood glucose levels are unregulated and complications can occur throughout the body, especially in the feet. Poor circulation is a possibility, along with peripheral arterial disease and feelings of cold and numbness. Poor circulation can make it hard for small nicks and cuts to heal appropriately. Even something as seemingly trivial as an ingrown toenail can become dangerously infected and even deteriorate into an ulcerated wound.

What can you do to prevent excess weight from negatively impacting foot and ankle health? There are two important steps to take:

1. Maintain a healthy diet with an emphasis on fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.

2. Exercise regularly. Go to the gym if you find it enjoyable. If not, other options abound. Try a gentle yoga or tai chi class or schedule a walk with some friends. Not only will your health improve, but your relationships will benefit too.

Of course, the best thing you can do to maintain your foot health is to see a board-certified podiatrist like Eric Kosofsky, DPM and Robert Rutstein, DPM for regular examinations. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to care for this part of your body. Schedule a convenient appointment in Hartford Podiatry Group’s modern, comfortable offices in Hartford and Rocky Hill today. Call our friendly staff at 860-523-8026 or click here to get started.