Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed and irritated. The condition can cause significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to walk and perform daily activities let alone perform exercise and lose weight. While there are many potential causes of plantar fasciitis, research has shown that being overweight may be a contributing factor. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between plantar fasciitis and excess weight and discuss potential treatment options.
Obesity is a well-known risk factor for a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. However, research has also shown that obesity may increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. A 2019 study published in the Foot & Ankle International Journal found that individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) were more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. The study also revealed that those who were obese had a more severe form of the condition, with increased pain and decreased function.
One potential reason for the link between plantar fasciitis and obesity is the increased pressure placed on the plantar fascia due to excess weight. As the body becomes heavier, the structures in the foot are forced to bear more weight and pressure than normal, leading to potential inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia.
Fortunately, there are several treatments available for individuals with plantar fasciitis, regardless of their weight. These treatments include:
- Rest and ice: One of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis is rest and ice. Resting the affected foot can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain while applying ice can help reduce swelling.
- Stretching exercises: Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and relieve tension in the plantar fascia, reducing the risk of further injury.
- Shoes with proper support: Wearing shoes with proper support can help reduce pressure on the plantar fascia and alleviate pain.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy may be recommended for individuals with more severe cases of plantar fasciitis. A physio can help individuals learn exercises and stretch to improve foot and ankle strength and flexibility.
- Weight loss: For individuals who are overweight, weight loss may be recommended as a treatment for plantar fasciitis. Losing weight can help decrease the pressure placed on the plantar fascia, reducing the risk of further inflammation and irritation. However, as many know, weight loss is often easier said than done especially when the person trying to lose weight is suffering from heel pain that hampered exercise. As such those that are overweight can find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle, a cycle that consists of heel pain, weight gain leading to more heel pain etc. etc.
Such people often need a helping hand to break this depressing cycle. Often the helping hand comes in the forms of cryosurgery or focused shockwave treatment, both of which are offered by the Barn Clinic.
In conclusion, while plantar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition, it is important to remember that there are many potential treatment options available. Additionally, addressing potential risk factors such as obesity can help reduce the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis in the first place. Incorporating a combination of rest, exercise, proper footwear, and cryosurgery or focused shockwave treatment can enable potential weight loss, individuals can reduce pain and improve function, allowing them to get back to their daily activities more quickly.
References:
- Irving DB, Cook JL, Menz HB. Factors associated with chronic plantar heel pain: a systematic review. J Sci Med Sport. 2006 Jun;9(3):11-22. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2006.03.004. Epub 2006 May 10. PMID: 16678356.
- Lee SY, McKeon P, Hertel J. Does weight status affect the presentation and outcome of patients with plantar fasciitis? Foot Ankle Int. 2019 Apr;40(4):387-392. doi: 10.1177/1071100718810996. Epub 2018 Nov 19. PMID: 30452395.
- Williams CM, Tinley P, Curtin M. The effect of weight loss on symptom severity and perceived functional capacity in overweight and obese individuals with plantar heel pain. J Foot Ankle Res. 2015 Apr 2;8:19.