Download Elevated BMI and Its Relationship to Foot and Ankle

Elevated BMI and Its Relationship to Foot and Ankle Disease
What is the BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI is a
fairly reliable indicator of body fatness for most people. BMI does not measure body fat
directly, but research has shown that BMI correlates to direct measures of body fat. BMI is an
inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to
health problems.
How can an elevated BMI impact my general health?
Overweight individuals are at increased risk for many diseases and health conditions, including
the following:
 Hypertension
 Dyslipidemia (for example, high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, or high levels of
triglycerides)
 Type 2 diabetes
 Coronary heart disease
 Stroke
 Gallbladder disease
 Osteoarthritis
 Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
 Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)
How can elevated BMI impact foot and ankle disease?
Tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and osteoarthritis usually are secondary to overuse and increased
stress on the soft tissues and joints, which may be directly related to increased weight on
these structures. In addition, for diabetics with foot disease overweight individuals may be at
higher risk for ailments such as nerve damage and foot ulcers.
How can I lower my BMI?
Your primary care physician is a great resource for recommending a program of diet and or
exercise tailored to your health profile and we always recommend working with your primary
care provider to optimize your BMI.
Source: CDC and Foot Ankle Int. 2007 Sep;28 The effects of obesity on orthopaedic foot and ankle pathology.
HealthFusion.com