Diabetes affects many people and may cause health conditions like foot ulcers to develop. If left untreated, foot ulcers can become gangrenous and in severe cases, lead to amputation. Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes, is often linked to obesity and lifestyle factors. Obese individuals with diabetes are more apt to find it challenging to maintain healthy lifestyles, including proper eating and exercise, and may need assistance. In addition to the psychological distress this condition causes, it can also severely impact one’s overall health. If you are obese or have diabetes, and it is affecting your feet, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to get the care and support needed to maintain your health.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.