Pregnancy can physically change the structure of a woman’s feet. More than half of expectant mothers experience foot problems during pregnancy that result in foot, back, ankle, knee or hip pain. But foot issues are often “tolerated”, with most expectant moms chalking it up as part of being pregnant. Many of these conditions can be effectively and safely treated without any medication so it’s considered “baby-safe.”

Here’s the top conditions of the foot associated with pregnancy foot pain:

COLLAPSED ARCHES
Gaining weight quickly, particularly during the first few months of pregnancy, can have an impact on foot structure, and cause the arch to collapse and physically change shape. The body also releases a hormone called relaxin during pregnancy, which allows the pelvis to open for your baby’s delivery. But this can have the effect of relaxing ligaments in the feet and ankles too, making them more flexible, and contributing to the appearance of flat feet. This can be painful as tendons, ligaments and muscles in the feet and legs all have to work harder to help support the foot and may become damaged due to overuse. If you’re a working expectant mom, or if you’re a working mom with children, you’ll feel the pain being on your feet all day.

To relieve the effects of collapsed arches, get professionally fit orthotic shoe insoles, wear comfortable footwear, ideally with a firm heel, a cushioned innersole and either a strap, laces, or Velcro. This will keep the foot stable and help to support the arch. It may be necessary to support the arch with professionally fit shoe inserts. They can give a great deal of relief within minutes of putting them in your favorite shoes. It’s also best practice to get fitted early for orthotics as a preventive measure.

SWELLING of feet during pregnancy
It’s normal to get some swelling in pregnancy, particularly in your ankles and feet. It is often worse at the end of the day or if you have been standing or sitting for long periods. One reason for swelling is that as the baby grows, the uterus can put pressure on veins in the pelvis, slowing down the return of blood to your heart. This can lead to blood accumulating in the small vessels of the foot, and fluid leaking into the surrounding tissues causing swelling (known as oedema).

To reduce swelling pregnant women should try not to sit or stand for long periods of time, keep feet elevated whenever possible, and avoid crossing the legs. Staying active with regular exercise such as walking and swimming helps too however proper foot support will help prevent swelling and pain. Low impact activities keep the blood circulating around the body, feet and legs.

Chronic FOOT PAIN during pregnancy – Plantar Faciitis
Common sites of pain include the heel and around the arch of the foot (in the plantar fascia, a band of connective tissue that helps support the arch of the foot), where a condition known as plantar fasciitis may be diagnosed when the tissue becomes irritated. There is also a risk that areas of high pressure can result in corns and calluses developing if not corrected.

Along with professionally fit arch supports for pregnancy foot pain, daily stretching of the plantar fascia can also help relieve pain. To do this, place a towel on the pad right under your toes, pull back and hold for 20-30 seconds. Alternatively, you can roll a cold can of drink under the arch of your foot. Stretching the calf muscle with a wall stretch can also help too. Place two hands on a wall, bend your right knee, push your left heel into the ground and hold for 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat.

Best Feet sees many expectant moms for help in relieving pregnancy foot pain, heel pain, arch pain, ankle pain, hip pain, knee pain and expecially back pain. All of these pain conditions have a fast, natural, baby-safe remedy that’s medication-free and holistic via fitted arch supports.

Best Feet professionally fit orthotic shoe arch supports provide immediate pain relief related to pregnancy. Our pain relief experts are here for you with a free evaluation and balance test with no obligation. Don’t live in pain, book online, call or just walk in for same-day relief!

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