Pregnancy and your feet

Tue, May 20th 2014, 12:15 AM

While the joy of motherhood may be one of life's most precious gifts, expectant mothers must endure the rigors of pregnancy before they can experience the joy. In addition to the bundle of joy, new mothers are often also blessed with weight gain, stretch marks and even foot pain. The average weight gain in pregnancy is between 10 and 30 pounds, some of which becomes permanent after the pregnancy.
As a woman's waistline expands, weight gain during pregnancy can alter her center of gravity causing a sway-backed posture called lordosis. This new posture, coupled with the weight gain, creates pressure on the knees, legs, ankles and feet. As a result, everyday movements such as lifting, sitting, standing and walking are affected.
Some of the most common foot ailments mothers-to-be may face are swollen feet, flat feet and cramps, which can lead to pain in the heel, arch and ball of the feet. Many women may also experience leg cramping and varicose veins due to weight gain. Due to these common complaints it is important for all pregnant women to learn about foot health care so their feet can be as comfortable as possible during and after their pregnancy.
Flat feet
Causes: Increased hormone levels in pregnancy lead to loosening of ligaments in the feet and the arch of the foot becomes flattened out with bearing of extra weight; the foot overpronates (rolls inward) while walking. This can cause severe strain or even inflammation on the plantar fascia and result in pain on the balls of your feet and plantar fasciitis (intense heel pain). This can also increase a woman's shoe size during pregnancy, and she may have to wear a half or whole size larger after giving birth.
Prevention/treatment: choose and wear comfortable, properly fitted footwear that provides extra arch support and shock absorption, such as athletic shoes. Try to avoid standing for long periods of time and walking barefoot. Take a break when you can, and sit down and elevate your feet.
Swelling
Causes: Edema (swelling) is an increase in fluid in the tissues of your body. Swelling in your feet and ankles during pregnancy is very common, especially in the last trimester. It is caused by increased blood volume and hormonal changes in the blood vessels. Increases in foot size that are due to swelling are common, however swelling of the face or around the eyes is not normal and you should see your obstetrician right away.
Prevention/treatment: Walking gets your calf muscles working, which helps pump some of the extra fluid out of your legs and feet. Elevating your feet as much as possible when sitting down will also help. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and try to avoid foods that are high in salt, as they will increase your fluid retention. Always wear the correct shoe size for your feet. If the swelling persists, your obstetrician or podiatrist may recommend wearing compression stockings to help decrease the swelling.
Foot and leg cramps
Causes: Cramps are painful spasms of the calf or feet. Their cause is not clear, but it is believed that they are due to changes in calcium levels or pressure from the growing uterus on the blood vessels and nerves. Cramps appear to be more common during the second trimester and at night.
Prevention/Treatment: Stretching and massaging the muscles in your legs and feet can help relax a cramp. Exercising, walking it out or taking a warm bath can also relax a cramp. Drink lots of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Talk to your doctor about taking supplements such as calcium, magnesium, etc.
Varicose veins
Causes: Varicose veins are veins that are enlarged and visible through the skin. They develop in the lower legs and ankles because of the hormonal changes in the blood vessels and the increased weight of the growing uterus and baby putting pressure on blood vessels.
Prevention/treatment: Do not stand for long periods of time and try not to cross your legs when sitting. Walking keeps the blood flowing to your muscles, which helps to push the blood back toward the heart. If driving for long distances, stop frequently to stretch and exercise your legs.
Ingrown toenails
Causes: Toenails tend to grow faster during pregnancy due to the hormones and extra vitamins and nutrients. Often there are nail changes such as brittleness, ridges or grooves across the nail or dark lines/streaks in the nail bed. A nail might even become loose and fall off. These nail changes will usually go away after your pregnancy. Because of the swollen toes, ingrown toenails (when corners of a toenail curl down and dig into the side of the toe) often occur during pregnancy or shortly after delivery. Patients usually present with redness, pain and drainage to the toe.
Prevention/treatment: Do not wear shoes or socks that are too tight because they put extra pressure on the skin around the nails causing them to become ingrown. Do not trim your toenails too short or have your spouse trim your toenails if you are not able to see or reach your feet. Soaking in vinegar and cold water may give some relief, but if symptoms persist see your podiatrist for treatment.
Tips for good foot health during and after pregnancy
A good pair of shoes can prevent lots of foot pain, especially in pregnancy. Wear comfortable, well-fitted low to moderate heeled shoes, and avoid too flat or very high heeled shoes during pregnancy. Choose shoes with a square or round mouth, avoid pointy-toed and pencil-heeled shoes.
Shop for new shoes later in the day, as your feet tend to swell as the day goes on. This will help you purchase the right size shoe. Try on the shoe and make sure it fits before you leave the store.
A foot massage can do great wonders for tired and aching feet. Have your feet massaged regularly.
If the pain, swelling, cramps, ingrown toenails nail and varicose veins persist, see your podiatrist who can evaluate your feet and treat them in a manner that is safe for the baby and the mother to be.
o For more information email us at foothealth242@gmail.com or visit us at www.apma.org, foothealth.org or feetforlife.org. To see a podiatrist visit Bahamas Foot Centre, Rosetta Street, telephone 325-2996 or Bahamas Surgical Associates, Albury Lane, telephone 394-5820.

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