Conditions

Definition

Pregnancy triggers many different changes in a woman's body. A common complaint in the last few months of pregnancy, often overlooked, is foot pain. Due to the natural weight gain during pregnancy, a woman's centre of gravity is completely altered. This causes a new weight-bearing stance and added pressure to the knees and feet. Two of the most common foot problems experienced by pregnant woman are over- pronation and ankle oedema. These problems can lead to pain at the heel, arch, or the ball-of-foot. Many women may also experience leg cramping and varicose veins due to weight gain. Because of this, it is important for all pregnant women to learn more about foot health during their pregnancy to help make this nine month period more comfortable for them.

Cause

Excessive Pronation, also referred to as flat feet, is caused when a person's arch flattens out upon weight bearing and their feet roll inward when walking. This can create extreme stress or inflammation on the plantar fascia, the fibrous band of tissue that runs from the heel to the forefoot.

Over-pronation can make walking very painful and can increase strain on the feet, calves and/or back. The reason many pregnant women suffer from over-pronation is the added pressure on the body as a result of weight gain and due to the hormones in pregnancy causing the ligaments to slacken. Over-pronation is also very prominent in people who have flexible, flat feet or in people who are obese.

Oedema, also referred to as swelling in the feet, normally occurs in the latter part of pregnancy. Oedema results from the extra blood accumulated during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis and legs causing circulation to slow down and blood to pool in the lower extremities. The total water fluid in the body remains the same as before pregnancy, however it becomes displaced. When feet are swollen, they can become purplish in colour. Sometimes extra water is retained during pregnancy, adding to the swelling. If there is swelling in the face or hands, a doctor should be contacted immediately.

Treatment and Prevention

There are effective ways to treat both over-pronation and oedema during pregnancy.

Excessive Pronation can be treated conservatively with "ready-made" orthotics. These orthotics should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear foot posting to correct the over-pronation. Proper fitting footwear is also very important in treating excessive pronation. Choose comfortable footwear that provides extra support and shock absorption.

It is important to treat excessive pronation for pain relief but also to prevent other foot conditions from developing such as Plantar Fasciitis, Heel spurs, Metatarsalgia, Post-Tibial Tendonitis and/or Bunions.

Oedema in the feet can be minimised by the following methods:

• Elevate your feet as often as possible. If you have to sit for long periods of time, place a small stool by your feet to elevate them.
• Wear proper fitting footwear. Footwear that is too narrow or short will constrict circulation.
• Have your feet measured several times throughout your pregnancy. They will probably change sizes.
• Wear seamless socks that do not constrict circulation.
• If you are driving for a long period of time, take regular breaks to stretch your legs to promote circulation.
• Exercise regularly to promote overall health; walking is the best exercise.
• Drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated. This helps the body retain less fluid.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid foods high in salt that can cause water retention.

Swelling is normally similar in both feet. If swelling is not symmetrical in both feet, this may be a sign of a vascular problem and a doctor should be contacted immediately. If any problems persist, consult your doctor.