The Ministry of Health’s 2019 STEPS survey showed that Bahamians are getting bigger and heavier with an average BMI (body mass index) of 29.8 – that 71.6 percent of the population is overweight (27.9 percent) and obese (43.7 percent). Obesity increases one’s risk of chronic non-communicable diseases including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and strokes. The survey also revealed increasing numbers of persons with diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure. The amount of time spent in physical activity has increased since the last survey but 30.2 percent of Bahamians do not get sufficient physical activity (men 20 percent versus women 39.5 percent). Further, each day, 23.7 percent (or four hours) of our waking hours are spent doing sedentary activities such as sitting and watching TV or using a computer.
A survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association found that foot problems, especially foot pain, is a major deterrent to exercise, which contributes to our alarming rates of physical inactivity, overweight and obesity. In the study, as much as 72 percent of respondents said they do not exercise because foot pain prevents them from doing so. The results also showed that respondents view their feet as the least important part of the body in terms of their health and well-being, however, they reported the feet as the number one part of the body to experience pain, even more than the teeth or skin.
In addition, nearly one in three children are overweight or obese, and combating childhood obesity has become a major public health concern for all Bahamians. Parents must be aware that proper foot health plays a vital role in keeping children active and healthy.
In the past months, COVID-19 has seen a lot of people hitting the street and parks or beaches for exercise and stress relief, however many have also developed foot pain. Foot pain contributes to a variety of negative health consequences including a decrease in exercise, standing and walking. There are many causes for foot pain. Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly is one of the most common reasons why people (especially women) get foot pain. Heel pain is the most common cause of foot pain and the reason why most people see the podiatrist. Other common causes of foot pain may include foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes, arthritis, gout, trauma and other injuries such as fractures. There can also be pain from overuse injury. It is common for an individual who was not exercising regularly to jump up and decide to exercise vigorously. This is not the best way to start an exercise program and can lead to injury and foot pain.
It is important for all Bahamians to see a podiatrist immediately if foot problems arise, especially now, as many persons have losing weight and exercise on their list of New Year’s resolutions. To make that a reality and to stick with it, it is best to have the reason for foot pain evaluated and treated before starting any exercise program.
The podiatrist can not only help to ensure people are able to exercise safely and pain-free, but also help catch signs of diabetes, arthritis, and nerve and circulatory disorders, which can all be detected in the feet. Today’s podiatrist also plays an integral role in helping children live healthy by keeping their feet pain-free, which encourages them to stay active and fit.
Exercise is a major strategy to help combat the obesity epidemic we are experiencing here in The Bahamas. However, if adults and children have foot pain, they will not exercise or will not do so regularly. Here are some tips to help keep your feet pain-free, so you can exercise.
• Wear the correct size shoes. Have your feet measured when purchasing sneakers and other footwear.
• Wear the correct style shoes for the activity you have planned. The type and style of sneakers worn for exercise can also affect the feet causing or relieving foot pain.
• Pay attention to prevent injury when playing your sport or activity.
• Start your exercise program slowly and increase the time and intensity once you are comfortable with your work out.
Remember, foot pain is not normal. It can stop or derail your exercise program. If you are having foot pain, pause your exercise routine and see your local podiatrist. We recommend that before starting any exercise program, see your primary care physician for a complete physical exam and your podiatrist to have a foot check-up. By putting your healthy, good foot forward, you can stick with your resolutions and achieve your goal. Healthy feet are the beginning of a healthy you!
• For more information on foot conditions, visit www.apma.org, healthcentral.com, or email us at foothealth242@gmail.com. To see a podiatrist, visit Bahamas Foot Centre, Rosetta Street, or telephone 325-2996 for an appointment at Bahamas Surgical Associates Centre, Hilltop Medical, or call 394-5820 for an appointment. You can also visit Lucayan Medical Centre in Freeport, Grand Bahama, or telephone 373-7400 for an appointment.
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source https://thenassauguardian.com/foot-pain-can-stop-your-exercise-plan/
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