From Foot Pain To Fractures: Orthopaedic Surgeon Reveals How Your Weight Is Secretly Ruining Your Bones

Obesity is often linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease, but what many people don’t realize is how much it affects bone and joint health. Carrying extra weight puts added stress on your body, leading to pain, mobility issues, and a higher risk of conditions like osteoarthritis.

According to the 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) report, 7.27 per cent of adults in India suffer from obesity, and the numbers are expected to grow by 4.1 per cent annually. This rise means more people will experience orthopaedic problems that can impact their daily lives.

We got in touch with Dr Kaushal Malhan, Director of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, who explains that obesity affects the bones and joints in two key ways—biomechanically and metabolically.

How Obesity Impacts Bone and Joint Health

1. Increased Stress on Joints

Excess weight puts a significant burden on the joints, especially those that bear most of the body’s weight, like the knees, hips, and spine. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear, making movements painful and difficult.

"Obesity alters gait and increases joint stress, which causes pressure on the cartilage and surrounding soft tissues. This imbalance accelerates joint wear, eventually leading to osteoarthritis," says Dr Malhan.

Muscle mass also plays a vital role in supporting and cushioning joints. Since obesity often leads to muscle loss, the support system weakens, increasing the risk of joint pain and injuries.

2. Inflammation and Cartilage Breakdown

Beyond just added weight, obesity triggers metabolic changes that harm joint health. Fat cells produce cytokines, inflammatory substances that contribute to cartilage loss and collagen breakdown.

"This explains why osteoarthritis isn’t limited to weight-bearing joints but is also seen in the shoulders, hands, and wrists of obese people," Dr Malhan points out.

Other conditions linked to obesity-related metabolic dysfunction include:

- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Nerve pressure causing tingling and pain in the hands.

- Plantar Fasciitis – Heel pain due to inflammation.

- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction – Painful flat foot that worsens with time.

The Paradox of Fracture Risk in Obese People

One might assume that obese people have stronger bones due to the extra weight they carry, but studies suggest otherwise. While obesity is associated with higher Bone Mineral Density (BMD), it also increases the risk of fractures.

"We see fewer hip, spine, and wrist fractures in obese individuals, but a higher incidence of fractures in the ankle, upper leg, and humerus," Dr Malhan explains.

Factors contributing to this include:

- Metabolic imbalances affecting bone strength.

- Increased risk of falls due to altered gait and poor balance.

- Chronic pain and post-surgery complications, such as infections and implant failure.

Managing Weight to Protect Bone and Joint Health

Losing even a small percentage of body weight can make a noticeable difference in joint health. Studies show that losing 5-10 per cent of body weight can reduce joint pain and lower the risk of osteoarthritis. Dr Malhan suggests the following strategies:

- Regular Physical Activity – Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise, five times a week. Low-impact activities like swimming and water aerobics are ideal for those with joint pain, as they reduce strain while strengthening muscles.

- Strength Training – Helps build muscle to better support joints.

- Balanced Nutrition – Include foods rich in calcium and vitamin D while avoiding processed sugars and inflammatory foods.

- Professional Guidance – A multidisciplinary approach involving orthopaedic specialists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists can help create a personalized plan for long-term success.

Obesity is not just about weight—it directly affects bone and joint health, increasing the risk of arthritis, fractures, and chronic pain. However, the good news is that a combination of weight management, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help reduce these risks.

Dr Malhan explains that "A proactive approach combining exercise, diet, and medical intervention can significantly improve joint health and overall well-being." If you or someone you know is struggling with obesity-related joint issues, taking action now can lead to a healthier, more active future.

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