It’s no secret that obesity is an ever-increasing problem in the U.S. Some studies put the number at one-third of the population having a Body Mass Index (BMI) above acceptable levels and are considered obese. Worse yet, over six percent are considered morbidly obese. This is an extremely unhealthy situation.
So, what exactly does it mean to be obese? Normal BMI ranges from 20-25. An individual is considered obese if BMI is over 30; and morbidly obese with a BMI of 40 or more. Other measurements include people who are 100 pounds over ideal body weight or are experiencing obesity-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
There are many other medical issues associated with obesity, including pain in the lower back, hips, knees, legs, and feet. Not only is there an increased risk of arthritis, I see patients who have stress on tendons and heel pain. All these problems lead to a lower quality of life than for people with normal weight.
How much does this affect people? According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, as little as one pound above your ideal weight can increase pressure on your hips, knees and ankles by as much as eight pounds. Simply walking up a flight of stairs or up an incline can increase pressure on your ankles by four to six times.
For more than 30 years in practice, I’ve noticed this cycle of people gaining weight and having increased foot problems. Of course, weight control can be an essential component to alleviate medical problems including foot pain. Patients often tell me that their primary care physician will tell them that they must lose weight; however, these same doctors do little more than make this suggestion but don’t provide solutions.
This lead me to design an approach to weight loss that involves appetite suppressant medication along with a personalized diet and medical monitoring.
The program I’ve created involves my working directly with each patient to help him or her reach a healthy BMI. The program includes:
Don’t wait! The sooner you start this important weight loss program, the sooner you’ll get your weight under control, have less foot pain, and a healthier lifestyle.
Contact Miami Podiatrist Dr. Sandra R Gotman and her staff today to schedule your appointment. We are conveniently located in on SW 40th Street in Kendall.
