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Obesity Can Increase Foot Pain and Injury Risk

Tuesday, 27 October 2026

The feet support the body’s full weight with every step, so excess weight can place greater pressure on bones, joints, and soft tissues. This added strain can change how the feet spread and move when walking. It can also affect balance and make activity uncomfortable. Heel pain, arch pain, and ankle pain can develop when the feet must manage greater force. Extra pressure can also contribute to corns, calluses, and bunions. Joint stiffness or swelling may make standing and movement more difficult. When discomfort limits activity, managing weight can become more challenging, creating a cycle of pain and reduced movement.

Obesity is linked to several foot conditions. Plantar fasciitis causes pain where a strong band of tissue supports the arch and connects to the heel. Added pressure can irritate this tissue and make the first steps after rest especially painful. Excess weight can also increase stress on the ankles and raise the risk of osteoarthritis, which develops as joint cartilage breaks down. Gout, a painful form of arthritis that frequently affects the big-toe joint, is also associated with obesity. People who are obese also have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. This condition can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, allowing wounds to develop or worsen without clear warning signs.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and identify areas receiving too much pressure. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve weight distribution and provide support. A podiatrist can recommend well-fitted shoes and provide care for corns or calluses. Treatment for heel pain can reduce strain and improve movement. Patients with diabetes can receive foot examinations to detect skin damage, reduced feeling, or circulation concerns early. Addressing foot pain can help patients stay active. If you have foot or ankle pain related to being overweight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis 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 Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

How Podiatrists Treat Achilles Tendonitis

Tuesday, 20 October 2026

Achilles tendonitis develops when the band connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated. This tendon helps lift the heel when walking, running, or jumping. Pain can affect the middle of the tendon or the area where it attaches to the heel bone. Symptoms include aching or burning behind the ankle, morning stiffness, and tenderness. Mild swelling can also appear after activity. The discomfort usually begins gradually and can make climbing stairs, running, or pushing off the foot difficult.

Repeated strain is a leading cause of Achilles tendonitis. Runners can develop it after increasing mileage too quickly, adding hills, or changing their routine. Tight calf muscles and limited ankle movement place added stress on the tendon. Risk also rises with age because tendons become less flexible. Flat feet, poor running form, and shoes that lack proper support can contribute to the problem. A bone spur near the heel can rub against the tendon and irritate its attachment. Continuing activity despite pain can worsen the damage and prolong recovery.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle, review how symptoms began, and check the tendon for swelling or tenderness. The examination can reveal problems with foot structure or movement that place extra strain on the area. Imaging tests can help rule out a tear or identify a bone spur. Treatment includes activity changes, heel lifts, or custom orthotics that improve foot alignment. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes and prescribe a brace or walking boot when more protection is required. Treatment is based on the location and severity of the irritation and the patient’s activity level. Most patients improve without surgery, but severe tendon damage can require it. Early care can reduce strain and support a safer return to normal activity. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's Neuroma in Female Runners

Tuesday, 13 October 2026

Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve problem that commonly develops near the base of the third and fourth toes. The nerve becomes enlarged and inflamed, which can lead to burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot. Some people describe the sensation as feeling like something is stuck beneath the forefoot. Female runners may face an increased risk because running places repeated stress on the front of the foot. Women who regularly wear narrow, pointed-toe shoes or high heels may experience additional pressure that crowds the toes and irritates the nerve.

Active women with flat feet may be particularly prone to developing a neuroma. Symptoms often begin gradually but can become more intense as the nerve continues to enlarge. Running on hard surfaces can repeatedly stress the forefoot, while certain footwear can increase compression around the toes. Morton’s neuroma is not visible on an X-ray, so diagnosis depends largely on symptoms and a physical examination. A podiatrist may press along the affected area or perform a movement that produces a noticeable click. Identifying the problem early is important because continued nerve irritation can eventually cause lasting damage.

A podiatrist can evaluate forefoot pain and determine whether Morton’s neuroma may be causing a runner’s symptoms. Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices designed to reduce pressure on the irritated nerve. More advanced cases may require surgery to release or remove the affected nerve. A podiatrist can also evaluate foot structure and determine whether other factors, such as flat feet, are contributing to repeated compression. Persistent burning, tingling, or numbness should not be ignored when it begins interfering with running or daily movement. If you are experiencing ongoing pain in the ball of the foot that may indicate Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Podiatric Care for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tuesday, 06 October 2026

Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when the tibial nerve becomes compressed near the inside of the ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel before continuing into the foot. Pressure in this area can cause pain, burning, or tingling along the sole of the foot. Some patients also experience numbness. Symptoms can become more noticeable with standing or activity. An ankle injury, a cyst, or changes in foot structure can increase pressure around the nerve. Identifying where symptoms occur can help determine whether nerve compression is involved.

A podiatrist can evaluate tarsal tunnel syndrome by examining the foot and ankle and asking about the pattern of symptoms. One examination method involves gently tapping over the tibial nerve near the inner ankle. Tingling or an electric sensation that travels into the foot can suggest irritation of the nerve. The podiatrist can assess ankle movement, foot structure, and the way a patient walks. This evaluation is important because other problems can also cause pain or numbness in the foot. Understanding the source of the symptoms helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.

Podiatric care can focus on mechanical factors that place added stress around the ankle and foot. A podiatrist can address restricted joint movement and evaluate how the lower leg affects foot mechanics. Treatment can include gentle joint mobilization, guided stretching, and strengthening exercises based on examination findings. A podiatrist can also assess movement patterns that could increase pressure around the tarsal tunnel. Persistent numbness or worsening weakness deserves careful evaluation because ongoing nerve compression can affect foot function. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Sunday, 04 October 2026

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

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