Obesity places significant strain on the feet, leading to increased pressure on the joints, soft tissues, and arches. Excess weight contributes to a lower arch height and a more pronated foot posture, which alters how the foot functions during walking. This change in biomechanics can lead to foot pain, swelling, and a higher risk of joint damage over time. The added stress also accelerates cartilage wear, increasing the likelihood of developing arthritis in the foot and ankle. Obese patients often experience higher plantar pressures, which can cause pain in the heel, midfoot, and toes. The increased load on the feet may weaken intrinsic foot muscles, reducing stability and increasing the risk of falls. Limited mobility and altered gait patterns can further compromise foot function, leading to chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can assess structural changes, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide treatment to alleviate pain and improve mobility. If you have foot pain that may be related to your weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

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 Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists 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 our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoe is vital for comfort and performance. There are four main types of running shoes, each designed to address different needs. Motion control shoes are ideal for runners who overpronate, offering extra support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Stability shoes provide moderate support and cushioning, making them suitable for runners who need a balance between comfort and stability. Neutral shoes are designed for runners with a neutral stride, providing cushioning without added support, perfect for those with a natural gait. Lastly, minimalist shoes aim to mimic barefoot running by offering minimal cushioning and support, encouraging a more natural foot movement. Understanding your running style and foot mechanics is key to selecting the right shoe, as it can help improve performance and prevent injuries during your runs. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what type of running shoe to purchase.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a complete tear of the tendon connecting the calf muscle to the heel, often caused by sudden, forceful movements like jumping or sprinting. It is most common in active individuals aged 30 to 50, especially those engaging in high-impact sports or activities without proper warm-up. The rupture often feels like a sharp pain or a snapping sensation in the back of the ankle, followed by difficulty walking or standing on tiptoes. Swelling and bruising may also occur. Without treatment, mobility can be severely impaired. If you have sustained an injury to your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis through physical exams and imaging, offer nonsurgical options such as immobilization in a boot, or, in more severe cases, surgical repair.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease is a condition that affects children, particularly those who are active in sports. It is a form of heel pain caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. The condition occurs when the Achilles tendon pulls on the growth plate, leading to discomfort. Common risk factors include participation in high-impact activities like running or jumping, a rapid growth spurt, and tight calf muscles. The primary symptom is pain in the heel, which worsens with physical activity, especially during or after sports. Children may also experience swelling and tenderness in the heel. Stretching exercises that focus on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can help relieve tension and reduce pain. Stretching the calf muscles, using foam rollers, and performing gentle heel stretches can help promote flexibility and ease discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause, and provide appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.