Innovation and Teaching Research in the Study

Within the context of innovation and educational research in higher education, this study addresses obesity as a highly prevalent chronic disease and a global public health problem with a direct impact on foot health. Through a literature review (PubMed, Elsevier, and Dialnet; December 2024-April 2025), this study analyzes the role of obesity in vascular disorders of the foot, identifying their pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical manifestations. Of the 39 articles reviewed, 11 with a high level of evidence supported the discussion. The mechanisms include chronic inflammation, insulin resistance with dyslipidemia, and hemodynamic abnormalities, which lead to endothelial dysfunction and atherogenesis. Clinically, these manifest as intermittent claudication, distal coldness, trophic skin and nail changes, ischemic ulcers, and edema. Most authors agree that obesity is an independent risk factor for vascular disorders of the foot, although some raise the "obesity paradox." The study concludes that obesity has a direct implication, emphasizing the role of the podiatrist and the educational value of this topic in university teaching.