People often overlook the impact their weight can have on their joints since the effects aren’t always apparent at first glance, or the symptoms creep up over time. Your trusted team at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay will be teaching you about the importance of maintaining an optimal BMI for better joint health.
How Your BMI and Joint Conditions Are Connected
When a person exceeds their recommended BMI, the added weight puts pressure on the various joints of the body. This includes your knees, hips, and even the ankles. The increased pressure over a period of time can lead to joint injuries like osteoarthritis which happens when the cartilage protecting your joints wears down. This injury can be identified by symptoms like stiff joints and consistent pain. Tendonitis is another condition that can occur with BMI-related joint injury with weight putting pressure on the tendons surrounding your joints.
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Factors That Determine Your BMI: Activity Level Tobacco Use Alcohol Consumption Genetics Diet |
Joint Injuries That Can Occur From High BMI
The joints that are affected by your BMI include the hip, knees, and ankles. Each area may exhibit varying symptoms when put under heavy and consistent pressure, leading to instances of pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. Types of joint injuries in the different areas include the following:
Knee Joint Injuries
Your knees carry much of the burden when your BMI goes over your calculated recommendation. Types of knee injuries include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Fractures
- Sprains and strains
- Meniscus tears
- Dislocations
- ACL injuries
- PCL injuries
- Multi-ligament injuries
Many types of knee injuries that happen over time from a high BMI can be treated with physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, injections, or surgical procedures.
Hip Joint Injuries
The hip can be at risk of certain injuries like hip fractures, impingement, osteoarthritis, and hip labral tears. Similar to the knee and other joints, hip joint injuries can be treated by orthopedic means whether that be through anti-inflammatory medications , physical therapy, injections and sometimes surgery.
Ankle Joint Injuries
Those who are on their feet for most hours of the day will likely see the effects of the extra weight on their feet and ankles. This will be apparent in the form of high and low ankle sprains along with injury to the Achilles tendon. Physical therapy may help relieve any pain or stiffness from foot and ankle injuries, but rest, bracing or injections may also be recommended.
Ways to Address Your BMI and Joint Pain
The best way to prevent BMI-related joint pain and injuries is through proactive care. Exercising regularly, building up muscle strength, and a healthy diet can all be beneficial in maintaining your joint health while promoting a better quality of life. These activities can all be done at home, but seeing a physical therapist can also help with joint health both as a preventive measure and a treatment method for existing injuries.
Promote a Healthier Body at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
At Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay, we can help you address your joint health and recommend the best solutions for treating any pain or injuries. Our compassionate team will encourage you to make impactful decisions regarding your lifestyle habits for a healthier body and a happier you.
