Pregnancy and your feet
Many changes occur to the body throughout the pregnancy process. Often changes to the feet and foot problems can be overlooked. The Podiatrists at SG Podiatry are here to help, particularly as your feet seem to get further and further away! Have a read below of some of the changes that can occur and how we can help.
Natural weight gain during pregnancy increases pressure on the lower limb increasing your risk of foot pain. Your centre of gravity changes also putting pressure on different structures. Your Podiatrist can talk to you about footwear options (remember you will likely go up a shoe size!) and prescribe orthotics to help with foot positioning and reduce pain. Hormones released during pregnancy cause ligamentous laxity. This can make your feet flatter.
Pregnancy can cause the formation of varicose veins and swelling. The pressure on the uterus places pressure on blood vessels and displaces water, causing the legs to swell and impairing circulation to and from the feet. To help improve this you may try graded compression, putting your feet up, reduce standing times as much as possible, drink plenty of water, avoid food high in salt, do ankle rotation exercises, and wear clothing and socks that do not restrict the circulation.
Toenails will become difficult to cut and your chances of ingrowing toenails increases. In addition women have an increased risk of plantar warts. The Podiatrists at SG Podiatry can assist with all your routine foot needs.