Items filtered by date: May 2025

Foot pain related to obesity often develops due to the strain that excess weight places on the feet, toes, and ankles. This additional pressure may cause persistent aching, swelling, and heel pain, especially during walking or standing. The arches of the feet can flatten under the excess weight, leading to changes in foot structure and discomfort in the joints. Conditions like plantar fasciitis and overpronation may also develop, as the feet work harder to support the body. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot alignment and function, recommend custom orthotics for support, and provide medical treatment for pain and inflammation. In advanced cases, surgery may be considered if structural damage has occurred. Left untreated, obesity-related foot pain may lead to mobility problems, joint strain, and further complications. If you are experiencing foot pain that may be related to your weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, guidance, 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 Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle arthritis happens when the cartilage in the joint wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can result from years of wear and tear, an old injury, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The pain often feels worse in the morning or after standing or walking for long periods. The ankle may feel weak or unstable, making it hard to move normally. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Wearing supportive shoes, braces, and custom orthotics can help reduce strain. Anti-inflammatory medication may also offer relief. In advanced cases, injections or surgery might be needed to restore comfort and function. Early care can slow the progression and protect mobility. If you feel ongoing pain or stiffness in your ankle, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Poor circulation can cause significant issues for hikers, especially in the feet and ankles where blood flow is already challenged by prolonged standing and walking. Peripheral vascular disease and venous insufficiency can reduce the ability of blood to travel efficiently. This may cause cold feet, numbness, tingling, swelling, and muscle fatigue during or after a hike. These symptoms can make hiking uncomfortable and may increase the risk of injury or delayed healing. Poor circulation also increases vulnerability to cold-related foot problems, as inadequate blood flow prevents proper warmth from reaching the extremities. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation problems in the feet and ankles and recommend appropriate medical treatment to manage symptoms and help improve blood flow. Paying attention to persistent numbness, swelling, or pain is important when hiking. If you are experiencing foot, toe, or ankle problems from hiking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate  treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly affecting the big toe. This condition can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic factors. People with curved or thick nails may be more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain along the nail edge, and sometimes infection with pus or drainage. The area can feel tender, sore, or even throb, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition and provide relief. Treatment options include gently lifting the nail, removing part of the nail, or, in recurrent cases, performing a minor procedure to prevent the nail from growing back improperly. They may also recommend proper foot care techniques and footwear changes to prevent future issues. If you have an ingrown toenail, is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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