Pregnancy and Your Feet

As a woman, you know that your body undergoes many physical changes during pregnancy. Even your feet are not immune to these changes! Considering the extra weight you end up carrying during pregnancy, it’s not too surprising that you can expect to experience changes to your feet. However, there are also other things that influence your feet during this time.

Foot Pain

Foot pain is one of the most common complaints that pregnant women mention. When you gain weight in pregnancy, the center of balance is put off. Think about it. You’ve spent your whole life with a center of balance that supports your entire weight down through your spine and on to your feet. Now, there’s a lot more weight pulling forward, which shifts the weight load to a different area of your feet. It’s no wonder that your feet are literally feeling the pain. The pain may occur on the ball of the foot, in the arches or in the heel. The number one thing you can do to relieve this pain is to get off your feet, since it’s the weight that’s causing it. 

Varicose Veins

Many women experience varicose veins or pronounced veins during pregnancy. The increased blood flow often causes veins to become more evident, even in the feet and ankles. If circulation becomes an issue, the veins may become permanently varicose. If you notice that your veins are more pronounced, or if you experience pain at the site of your veins, the best thing to do is consult with a podiatrist.

Flat Feet

Another unfortunate phenomenon that pregnant women sometimes have to deal with is flat feet. Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot flattens out instead of being risen. You can tell if you have flat feet by stepping barefoot in some water or baby powder and looking at the footprint. Flat feet are sometimes called fallen arches. If you get fallen arches when you’re pregnant, you’ll likely have to deal with this condition permanently. If flat feet are causing you pain, then you should consult with your podiatrist. In the meantime, you might need to consider investing in different styles of shoes.

Unfortunately, feet problems during pregnancy are all too common. However, your podiatrist has a variety of treatment options for all kinds of foot and ankle problems. These treatment options include things like stretching exercises, lifestyle modification, shoe inserts and even surgery. Talk to your doctor about which options make the most sense for you and your unique issues. The good news is that you don’t have to live with foot pain and discomfort. You may need to wear different kinds of shoes while pregnant or invest in a larger size, but in the vast majority of cases, the foot issues you encounter while pregnant will be resolved after you give birth.