Obese Kids Tend to be Flatfooted

Obese children are likely to have flatter feet compared to their normal-weight counterparts. Researchers speculate that this is due to a problem in their foot’s bone structure as well as extra fat. Flatfooted individuals have low arches on the inside of their feet. To test if you are flatfooted, simply wet your feet. Now stand on a flat surface. If it leaves a complete footprint, you are flatfooted.
For this study, the researchers examined the feet of 150 children aged 6 to 10, half of whom are obese and the other half thinner children. This study was published in the International Journal of Obesity.
When we were babies and toddlers, we had flatfeet. But as we age, the arch on the inside of our foot will develop. However, obese children tend to retain the flatfoot condition. This is assumed to be due to their excess weight, which creates the “fallen” arch.

The other possibility that researchers have looked into is that overweight children have more fat deposited in their feet. This results in lowered arches. This could become a problem for them, which may include foot, back or ankle pain.

Lead researcher Dr. Diane L. Riddiford-Harland of the University of Wollongong said the condition does not need any special therapy. Rather, arch supports placed as soles in shoes can do the trick.
The researchers, however, added that further study is needed to determine if the overweight condition could affect the children’s feet health in the long run.

Foot Problems Linked with Diabetes

Millions of people around the world have diabetes. Unfortunately, quite a handful of them do not know they have it. Diabetes is a very serious disease that can lead to several complications such as kidney failure, limb amputation, heart attack and stroke, blindness and impotence, among others. But did you know that diabetes can also lead to foot problems?

Dr. Claire Morbery is an endocrinologist who specializes in dealing diabetes. She said the blood vessels to our feet are delicate and are highly sensitive to increased levels of blood sugar.
“People with diabetes, particularly if it is poorly controlled, are more prone to develop neuropathy [damaged nerves] or peripheral vascular disease [blocked arteries] of the legs and either can lead to foot ulceration, infection and maybe even amputation,” Dr. Morbery explained. “Cigarette smoking will aggravate these problems.”

However, not all people will exhibit foot problems as symptoms of diabetes, Dr. Morbery added. She suggests good feet hygiene, regular checkups and a regular lookout for diabetes.
Here are a few steps on how to take good care of your feet to avert any foot-related disease or complication:

• Always visit a podiatrist for your foot-related condition. In all other circumstances, have them checked regularly, say once a year.

• Know your feet. If you notice something odd with them, seek professional as soon as possible. If practicable, apply ointments or any medication to suppress any complication. As much as possible, consult your doctor regarding your foot medication.

• Always maintain proper foot hygiene. Wash them with soap and water. Check them regularly for cuts, blisters, swelling, redness or pus discharge. Also, wear clean socks every day.

Dealing with Foot Swelling and Pain during Pregnancy

Pregnant women go through a lot of changes during those nine months of baby-carrying. Morning sickness, nausea and hormonal changes are just some of the common unfortunate circumstances that they will experience during this time. In addition to those conditions, preggies experience aching feet.
When these expectant mommas gain weight, swelling and instability in their feet sets in. In turn, this causes soreness and strain on their feet.

Marybeth Crane, DPM, FACFAS, is a foot and ankle surgeon. She relates that more pregnant women are experiencing foot swelling and pain. “In the last five years, I’ve seen an increase in pregnant women with foot pain because more women than ever before are active, even running marathons, during their pregnancies.”

Nevertheless, foot pain and swelling can be easily addressed and treated. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) offers the following pointers for pregnant women to help ease foot pain and avert further injuries.


Painful and Swollen Feet: Throbbing discomfort is usually attributed to the buildup of excess fluid in the feet. To reduce the swelling, ACFAS advises preggies to put their feet up, stretch them regularly and frequently, wear comfortable shoes and avoid crossing the legs when sitting.

Foot Cramps: Blood volume and progesterone levels increase during pregnancy. This results in cramping. To minimize foot cramps, increase blood circulation in the feet. Stretch, rotate and move them about. Try elevating them when sitting. A nice leisurely walk around the neighborhood block will help do the trick against persistent cramping. Again, don’t forget to stretch before you stride.