Foot & Ankle Care During Pregnancy
While pregnancy is one of the happiest moments in a woman's life, it also brings daily challenges and health complications. Pain in the foot and leg during pregnancy is one of them, foot care is an aspect of pregnancy care - but in India, not much attention is this aspect of health.
As she puts on weight through the pregnancy, there is additional stress and pressure on her lower body. There are other changes too - shift in the center of gravity, increase in hormonal flows - many of which result in foot pain and swelling.
1. Flat Feet or Over-pronation
Excess weight may cause the flattening of the arch of the feet, resulting in calf and back pain. The inflammation of the fibrous tissue of the plantar fascia may cause tremendous heel pain while Metatarsalgia could cause pain on the ball of the feet. Proper supportive insoles or footwear may solve many of these problems. Custom Insoles or foot orthotics are specially designed devices, recommended by foot experts or podiatrists, that provide additional foot and ankle support during pregnancy.
2. Swelling of the Feet
Swelling of the feet or edema may affect many women in the last trimester of pregnancy. According to some estimates, pregnant women can put on up to 10kg extra weight simply due to blood or fluid build-up. The fluid tends to gravitate to the feet, especially if they aren't in much use - for example when a person is sitting for long periods. So light exercising, walking, stretching of the feet - all these may avoid feet swelling.
3. Foot Pain and Cramps during Pregnancy
Hormonal changes may also cause foot pain and cramps. Light movement and gentle massage are common tricks to manage pain or cramps. A technique that works well is to grasp the affected foot and massage the foot arch with a light stress on the thumbs. Pushing the toes out is also a good technique for reducing pain and cramps.
Improve Foot Care during Pregnancy
- Rather than shoes with pointed toes, wear rounded or square-toed shoes. This is to accommodate foot swelling.
- Do not wear high heels - opt for flat heels
- Wear custom insoles that provide additional shock absorption
- Get regular foot massages
- Moisturize the feet daily to keep them well-hydrated and avoid cracks
- Wear surgical stockings, if needed, to improve blood flow
- Do some gentle exercise of the legs to keep them active and avoid fluid build-up
CuraFoot offers advanced foot diagnosis that includes gait analysis, pressure pad impression, 3D Scan, and custom orthotic insoles to correct foot problems. Foot pain during pregnancy is very common and to defeat CuraFoot provides a comprehensive solution.