Pregnancy is a wonderful thing, however, it may not come with such wonderful symptoms. As summer is fast approaching and the weather begins to heat up you may feel extra uncomfortable. Many complaints may stem from those swelling and achy feet. You may ask, “What does being pregnant have to do with my feet?” Here are a few symptoms related to your feet that may accompany pregnancy along with some tips and tricks to relieve that discomfort.
Swollen ankles and feet may result from standing or walking for long periods of time. Retaining water is normal and healthy during pregnancy, which may also lead to swelling. Luckily, after you deliver your bundle of joy, your swelling will go away.
Pain in your foot may occur as your body weight changes and your center of mass shifts. Pressure is put on different areas of your foot that your body is not used to causing pain and discomfort.
Another cause of pain may stem from over-pronation or “flat feet.” Flat feet may occur as a result of the added weight gain during pregnancy and relaxation of ligaments. This relaxation may come from hormone called relaxin. Relaxin is produced during pregnancy to help loosen up ligaments to prepare for childbirth. Relaxation of ligaments and the added edema may cause your foot grow a size and make those shoes a little tighter.
What to do?
Treatment for edema includes elevating your feet whenever possible. If you have a desk job or have to sit for extended periods of time, try putting a stool underneath your feet. In addition to elevating your feet, drink plenty of fluid. This may sound counterintuitive, however, by drinking more water your body does not want to retain as much. Also, cutting down on the amount of salt in your diet (unless otherwise told by your doctor) may help decrease water retention.
To treat flat feet, wear proper fitting footwear that supports your feet. If there is significant pain associated with your foot changes, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Jay C. Larson at Sole Foot and Ankle Specialists in Glendale, Arizona.