Pregnancy And Foot Pain

The body undergoes some amazing changes during pregnancy. Increased weight put more pressure on the feet and changes center of gravity. Hormonal changes cause ligament laxity not only in the pelvis but in the feet. Swelling of the feet and ankle as a result of pressure being placed on veins in the pelvic region can also cause problems.

Problems due to weight gain and laxity include:

• Flattening of the arch resulting in increase shoe size.
• Plantar fasciitis – pain over band going from heel to ball of foot.
• Tendonitis – especially the posterior tibial tendon.
• Metatarsalgia – Pain in ball of foot due to change in weight distribution.

Prevention of problems due to weight gain and ligament laxity include:

• Wear proper shoe gear. Use a shoe with an adjustable fastener to accommodate for swelling. The shoe should have adequate medial arch support to accommodate laxity. The shoe should have a wide deep toe box. A cross trainer sneaker or walking sneaker is ideal.
• Use over the counter innersoles to provide additional arch support.
• Custom orthotics will provide the most support to the arch.
• Stretching and exercise is important in preventing plantar fasciitis and tendonitis.

Problems due to swelling of the foot and ankle include:

• Difficulty with shoe fitting properly. This can lead to ingrown toenails, blister, corns, and calluses.
• Movement of the joints about the foot and ankle when swelling is present can also be quite painful.

Management of problems due to swelling include:

• Use maternity compression stockings.
• Elevate the feet often.
• Maintain a proper low sodium diet.
• Exercise regularly.

Unfortunately it is not uncommon for a women’s foot to increase one size after pregnancy

*For products to manage foot pain associated with pregnancy we recommend footsupplystore.com

*If you are having a foot problem as a result of your pregnancy please call our office (numbers below) or fill out the contact form and we will contact you.