Do you suffer foot pain from pregnancy?
Pregnancy can cause various changes in a woman’s body. These changes often lead to problems and complaints. Due to the extra weight gain, pregnancy can be tough on your feet and legs. Over-pronation and oedema are the most common problems that most women experience during pregnancy.
About Over-pronation
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- Over-pronation is common in pregnancy in that the increased weight gain stresses the feet and flattens the arches causing the feet to roll in.
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- These problems can lead to pain at the heel, arch, or the ball-of-foot.
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- Many women may also experience leg cramping and varicose veins due to weight gain.
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- Over-pronation can make walking very painful and can increase strain on the feet, calves and/or back.
About Oedema
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- Swelling, also called oedema, is another big problem for many pregnant women.
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- Normally occurs in the latter part of pregnancy.
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- Oedema results from the extra blood accumulated during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis and legs causing circulation to slow down and blood to pool in the lower extremities.
Helpful tips to reduce swelling and keep your feet feeling comfortable:
Support your feet – Wearing supportive insoles inside your shoes to support your arches, and choosing comfortable, roomy footwear that offers good support and shock absorption
Exercise – The more you move, the more your blood will flow in your legs and into the rest of your body which helps to reduce oedema.
Elevate and ice – When your feet get swollen, elevate your legs. Applying an ice pack will ease pain and reduce swelling.
Don’t push yourself – The more time you spend standing, the more your feet will swell. So limit time on your feet to keep the swelling from becoming too severe.
Drink plenty of water and avoid salty food
Look after your feet and don’t let your feet suffer more than they have to during your pregnancy.
