Foot pain when pregnant is a common issue with as much as half of those who are pregnant going through foot pain at some point during the pregnancy. There are many factors during the pregnancy that could be a cause of that. The most obvious is the increase in weight. As pregnancy progresses, the body gains weight to support the maturing baby. This additional weight might place additional strain on the feet, bringing about discomfort. Hormonal variations, mainly the hormone relaxin, can result in the relaxation of ligaments and joints in the body, which includes those ligaments in your feet. This would contribute to instability and contribute to foot pain. Puffiness or edema, is a common occurence during pregnancy. Water retention could cause the feet to get bigger, resulting in pain and discomfort in addition to troubles with the fit with the footwear. The hormonal variations may also affect the arches of the foot. Many women that are pregnant go through a flattening of the arches, that may bring about overpronation (rolling medially of the feet) and contribute to problems. Resulting from changes in weight distribution as well as hormonal effects on joints, women who are pregnant may change their walking gait, which will bring about foot discomfort. Wearing shoes which lack proper support or are far too tight fitting will worsen foot pain and discomfort during pregnancy. When the uterus expands, it can put stress on nerves in the spinal area and pelvis, which could cause referred symptoms to the feet. Pregnancy may raise the likelihood of developing varicose veins, that may cause pain and discomfort within the legs and feet.
Some of the conditions that may develop might include stress fractures. Sometimes, the additional weight and alterations in bone strength and density while being pregnant can bring about stress fractures within the foot. Heel pain is a common condition relating to irritation with the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. Pregnancy-related extra weight and hormonal variations can contribute to this disorder. This fluid retention can result in leg edema, that is swelling in the arms and legs, including the feet. This could contribute to discomfort. There are actually a variety of steps which can be done to alleviate foot pain and discomfort while being pregnant. Choose supportive and comfy footwear with decent mid-foot (arch) support. Elevate the feet while relaxing to help reduce puffiness. Carry out gentle foot stretches and exercises suggested by your medical professional. Steer clear of standing or sitting for extented periods. Make use of cold compresses to minimize inflammation. Use a healthy posture and body mechanics when walking and standing. Give consideration to using compression stockings to improve blood circulation when pregnant. If the pain is severe or chronic, speak with your healthcare provider to rule out any primary problems.
