Foot pain during pregnancy is a common complaint with as many as half of those who are pregnant suffering from foot problems at some point during the pregnancy. There are various reasons through the pregnancy that could be a cause of this. The most apparent would be the weight gain. As pregnancy progresses, the body increases in weight to support the maturing baby. This extra bodyweight could put additional pressure about the feet, producing discomfort and pain. Hormonal variations, particularly the hormone relaxin, can bring about the relaxation of ligaments and joints in the body, which includes those in your feet. This will likely bring about instability and bring about foot discomfort. Swelling or oedema, is a very common sign while being pregnant. Water retention leads to the feet to swell, bringing about pain and discomfort as well as troubles with the fit of the footwear. The hormone variations may also affect the arches of the feet. Some pregnant women experience flattening of the arches, that can result in overpronation (rolling inward of the feet) and lead to problems. Resulting from increases in bodyweight distribution as well as hormonal impacts on joints, pregnant women might modify their walking gait, that may contribute to foot problems. Wearing shoes which don't have appropriate support or are too tight fitting will exacerbate foot discomfort while being pregnant. As the uterus grows, it might place stress on nerve fibres in the back and pelvis, which might cause referred symptoms to the feet and elsewhere. Pregnancy may increase the risk of developing varicose veins, which may cause pain and discomfort within the feet and legs.
Some of the problems that may develop to the feet during pregnancy may include stress fractures. Sometimes, the additional weight and changes in bone density when pregnant can bring about stress fractures within the foot. Heel pain is a very common condition involving inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament which runs over the bottom of the foot. Pregnancy-related extra weight and hormone variations may play a role in this condition. This water retention may cause peripheral oedema, that is swelling in the extremities, along with the feet. This can easily contribute to pain and discomfort. You will find a range of things that may be done to relieve foot pain and discomfort when pregnant. Select supportive and comfy footwear with very good mid-foot (arch) support. Elevate your feet whenever resting to reduce the oedema. Carry out gentle foot stretches and exercises suggested by your healthcare provider. Steer clear of sitting or standing for extended periods. Use cold packs to lessen inflammation. Use a good posture and body biomechanics while walking and standing up. Give consideration to putting on compression stockings when pregnant to improve blood circulation. When the pain is severe or continual, speak with your medical professional to eliminate any primary disorders.
