Those who exercise are more likely to fuel their bodies than just "fill" them. There is a psychological role that mobility plays in our dietary habits.
Diet and exercise is key for maintaining healthy bodies, however when we're unable to engage in physical activities due to an ailment, a cascade of effects can occur, especially of the foot & ankle.
• We don't get the endorphins (the neurotransmitter responsible for the "runner's high") coursing through our bodies and can potentially lead to depression.
• Depression can lead to overeating, and being unable to engage in a high-calorie consuming exercise, we will be operating at a calorie surplus which can lead to weight gain.
• Increase in weight can exacerbate the problems of the foot & ankle by putting more pressure on them.
If you are experiencing pain in your foot or ankle, you're certainly not precluded from exercise, however you'll be drastically limited to low/no impact activities like: The elliptical, swimming, biking, etc. However, it's recommend that if you're experiencing pain or an abnormality, that you get it evaluated before it becomes a bigger set-back than had you taken care of it early on!
Most of our patients want the option to walk/run for their daily activities and for sport, so we look to reduce pain with noninvasive procedures first before recommending surgical options.