Exercise is essential for all children, but it’s especially important for kids who are overweight. That said, new research suggests overweight children should opt for non-weight bearing exercises in order to avoid certain foot problems caused by overstress.
Researchers suggest overweight children are at a heightened risk for foot pain and discomfort because they typically have fatter and flatter feet, and their feet are forced to absorb more weight. This increased pressure and lead to abnormal stress on the arched side of a child’s sole.
Additionally, these forces can be enhanced while running or during athletic activity. If pain develops, a child may become less active, which only adds to the obesity issue.
“Physical activity is certainly crucial to health and well-being, and halting weight gain is important,” said Diane L Riddiford-Harland of the University of Wollongong, who led a study of the effects of exercise on overweight kids’ feet.
Riddiford-Harland added that parents should try to get their children involved in exercise opportunities that can alleviate stress on their feet.
“Non-weight bearing physical activity such as swimming or cycling may be a good option,” said Riddiford-Harland. “There are all types of aquatic movement activities and cycling-type activities children can participate in, but going to the pool/beach or on a bike ride with an adult can be enjoyable and are usually quite affordable.”
Exercise Study
For their study, researchers divided obese but otherwise healthy children into one of three groups: A physically active group, an activity and diet modification group, and a diet modification only group. Researchers found that all children lost weight at the end of the study, and all exhibited normal foot growth.
Researchers said they were surprised in the lack of structural changes that took place between the exercise and non-exercise groups, but they still stand by their initial message – that carrying excess weight at a young age can contribute to health problems in the future.
“As the musculoskeletal system is still developing in young children, carrying excessive body mass will likely lead to long term health complications as they continue to age,” Riddiford-Harland said. “We still need to systematically determine just what causes the pain or discomfort that has been reported by these children, how prevalent it is, what makes it worse and does anything make it better, because being physically active and remaining physically active throughout life is imperative for good health.”
Dr. Silverman comments
The study is a little lacking in hard evidence, but their first message is a good one. Overweight children may see more benefits from non-weight bearing or partial-weight bearing exercises. Swimming and cycling are two great ways to stay active without putting repeated abnormal pressure on their feet.
That said, the main idea is moderation. Going for a walk with your child or just playing in the backyard are simple ways to keep your kids active and healthy.
Related source: Fox News