Pregnancy is a time of many changes in a woman’s body. There are several changes that take place that can affect a woman’s feet. While these changes cannot be totally avoided, there are somethings that can be done to help alleviate some of the discomfort.
One of the most common problems during pregnancy is that many find that their feet and ankles will swell, particularly during the third trimester. The buildup of fluid in the body along with the growth of the uterus puts pressure on the veins. This pressure makes it harder for blood to return to the heart. Swelling can then occur as the blood has a harder time returning from the feet, ankles and legs. There are a few things that you can do to help relieve the swelling.
1. Avoid standing for long periods of time. When you are sitting, try and put your feet up on a little stool to keep them elevated. When you can, lay down and elevate your legs so that your feet are above the level of your heart.
2. To take pressure off the large vein that returns blood from the lower half of your body, sleep on your side.
3. You could try wearing some compression stockings. You might want to ask your friendly local podiatrist about this option.
4. While drinking plenty of fluids may seem counter intuitive, it is very important during pregnancy to drink about 10 cups of water a day.
5. Take a walk. The exercise will keep your blood circulating.
6. Apply cool compresses to the swollen areas. This can help to reduce the swelling and help you to feel better.
7. When you are sitting with your legs elevated, rotate your feet in a circular motion to the left and then to the right.
Sudden or severe swelling or swelling only in one leg can be indications of a serious problem. Please contact your physician immediately if you feel the swelling is out of the ordinary.
Many women find that their feet will get larger during pregnancy. This happens because a hormone named relaxin is released in the body and it serves to relax the ligaments. Because the ligaments are relaxed, your feet may have a tenancy to overpronate. So it is very important during pregnancy to wear well fitting, supportive shoes. If your shoes feel tight, particularly at the end of the day, you should go out and get some comfortable shoes. Don’t forget to go shopping in the afternoon when you will most likely wear the larger shoe size and buy shoes that are comfortable when you try them on. Don’t think that they will get better with wear. You need them to be comfortable from the beginning.
If you find that your feet problems are bothersome, make an appointment to see your friendly local podiatrist and have your feet checked. With the loosening of the ligaments in your feet, you can be prone to plantar fasciitis and bunions. If your shoes are too tight, you can also experience ingrown toe nails.
Pregnancy should be a time of wonder in a woman’s life. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, an appointment with your friendly local podiatrist may help you feel much better.