If you are pregnant and any of the above adjectives describe your feet, you are not alone. Unfortunately, many women experience foot problems during their pregnancy. Due to the necessary weight gain, you may or may not notice that your center of gravity has been altered. This is completely normal, however, your body will compensate for this shift in body weight which can result is foot and knee problems.
Swelling
It is common for your feet and ankles to swell during pregnancy. The increase in blood volume needed to nourish a growing baby, changes in blood vessel diameter due to hormone levels in your body, and gravity all unfortunately work against you (leading to swelling and discomfort).
Treatment:
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Rest and elevate your legs throughout the day as much as possible – this will help bring excess fluid which is accumulating in your legs back up to your heart.
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Contrarily, walking can actually push the fluid accumulation back to your heart as well through a mechanism known as the musculo-skeletal pump. One may also activate the leg ‘muscle pump’ while stationary by moving or ‘pumping’ the feet up and down.
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Compression stockings can assist in decreasing the fluid retention and swelling within your legs and feet.
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Limit your salt intake and drink plenty of water.
There is no need to be uncomfortable during this time. Take the “steps” to care for your feet if swollen and you will be feeling footloose and fancy-free in no time.
Pregnancy, Flat Feet and Leg Cramps..OH MY!
Having swollen feet is not the only issue during pregnancy that can occur. You can experience flat feet (Over Pronation) and/or leg cramps and pain. Just as the case of swollen feet there is no need to suffer. What constitutes as “Flat Feet” and how can you avoid those painful leg cramps? Read on to learn more.
Flat Feet (Over Pronation)
Your arches in your feet are likely to flatten during pregnancy-this will undoubtedly place unwanted stress and strain upon your plantar fascia (which is the soft tissue band on the bottom of your foot which connects your heel to your toes). Walking will become more painful, especially if you are on your feet all day. Plantar fasciitis is a common problem pregnant women face due to the extra weight and stress placed on the arches of your feet.
Treatment:
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Supportive shoes are the key – try more comfortable and extra supportive sneakers or running shoes.
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Avoid unsupportive shoe gear such as flats, flip-flops/sandals, slippers, or Ugg-style boots.
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Insoles or orthotics can be very helpful, providing support and countering stress that occurs due to weight gain and relaxation of ligaments in the feet and ankles.
Leg cramps and pain
Leg cramps can occur due to a number of underlying causes, including: calcium concentration changes during pregnancy, electrolyte imbalances, extra weight gain, and/or muscle tightness from inactivity.
Treatment:
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Stretch/massage the muscles located in your legs and feet.
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Activities such as yoga or pool exercise can be beneficial.
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Hot packs and warm baths will help to relax your muscles.
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Drink at least 6-8 cups of water a day.
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Replace electrolytes with a sports drink.
Pregnancy is sometimes a difficult experience and your foot care is an important aspect. Don’t ignore your pain or symptoms. If you have questions about the above topic or any other questions you may have regarding your feet while pregnant give Dr. Gregg Neibauer of Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic a call at (406)721-4007 or schedule an appointment online today.