How Osteoporosis Impacts Your Feet and Ankles

We often associate osteoporosis with weakened bones in the hips and spine, but did you know this “silent disease” can significantly impact your feet and ankles as well?

Osteoporosis, characterized by decreased bone density and increased fracture risk, can subtly undermine the intricate structure of your feet and lead to pain, instability, and even debilitating fractures. At My Chicago Foot Expert, we work with our osteoporosis patients by educating them about the disease and devising tailored management solutions.

Causes of Osteoporosis in the Feet and Ankles

Several factors contribute to osteoporosis in the feet and ankles, primarily age-related bone density decline and hormonal changes like menopause. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of calcium and vitamin D, also play a role, as can certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders.

Osteoporosis Symptoms

While often unnoticeable in its early phases, osteoporosis in the feet can manifest as a multitude of ailments and injuries:

• Foot pain: A persistent ache or tenderness felt in the heel and midfoot.
• Changes in foot shape: Gradual flattening of the arches or development of bunions.

Specifically, osteoporosis significantly increases the risk of various foot and ankle fractures:

• Stress fractures: Tiny cracks in the bones of the metatarsals and heel that often occur without a significant impact or injury.
• Ankle fractures: Often take place around the ankle joint due to falls.
• Lisfranc fractures: Involving the midfoot joints caused by twisting injuries.

Managing Osteoporosis and Protecting Your Feet

Medications like bisphosphonates can help slow bone loss and increase bone density (consult with your provider for a medication right for you). Nutrition plays a vital role as well, especially with a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Exercise, including weight-bearing exercises and strength training, can also help maintain bone strength.

Additionally, consider choosing supportive footwear with good arch support and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on your bones.

There are even studies that suggest that smoking leads to bone loss, which is why we suggest quitting if you have osteoporosis.  

Reach out to the tenured staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.