Health & Fitness

Healthy feet a step ahead in weight loss

The first step toward weight loss could be making sure you have healthy feet.

Instead of diving head-first into a diet or weight-loss program, you might want to look at your feet first.

Obesity aggravates foot problems that make it difficult to exercise when you’re trying to lose weight, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Bad feet impede one of the simplest and easiest forms of exercise: walking.

The lack of exercise also assists the progress of heart disease, diabetes and other health threats.

Fat folks get caught up in the vicious cycle of avoiding physical activity due to foot or ankle pain, thereby permitting cardiovascular disease and other life-threatening conditions to worsen as a result.

Many seniors suffer foot pain, which usually is caused by treatable foot conditions that may have resulted from years of stress and pounding. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, foot and ankle pain can be eliminated from the debilitating health issues associated with aging.

A common misconception is growing older means having to cope with sore feet all the time. Foot and ankle surgeons believe seniors should not be resigned to accepting foot pain as a consequence of aging. Pain from common foot and ankle conditions can be treated successfully.

In many cases, chronic heel pain occurs from carrying too much weight. Left untreated, it becomes an impediment to physical activity and meaningful weight loss.

Medical advances have led to up-to-the-minute techniques employed to correct foot disorders and alleviate activity-limiting discomfort.

Non-surgical and surgical treatments can help seniors stay active, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Many causes of foot pain and discomfort can be alleviated non-surgically with stretching exercises, orthotics, and/or athletic shoes with solid support and shock absorption.

When heel pain, a bunion, or other condition requires surgery, the patient can exercise during recovery by riding a stationary bicycle, swimming, or weight training. A physical examination is mandatory before initiating any exercise program. After being cleared by your primary care physician and having your feet checked, don’t try to do too much too soon. Many people with diabetes feel they shouldn’t exercise when they experience foot ulcerations. Everyone with diabetes needs regular foot exams to check for possible sore spots and assess nerve sensation. With proper foot care and the right footwear, most diabetic patients can develop and maintain an exercise regimen that is safe and appropriate for them.

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