Copyright (c) 2010 Eamon Greville
Pregnancy as well as being a very special time is also a time when your body undergoes significant changes. One of the primary changes is in relation to feet. It is thus useful to know what changes in your feet to expect during pregnancy and how best to manage these for a happier healthier pregnancy.
It is frequently overlooked that women’s feet increase in size by approximately one or two sizes during pregnancy. The main reason for this increase is hormones that are released within the body with the aim of enabling the ligaments in the birth canal to relax. Also, ligaments in the feet relax which in turn causes the feet to lengthen and widen. As a result of increased weight gain during pregnancy many women suffer with foot problems – the most common of these being Over -Pronation and Edema. These can lead to pain being experienced at the following area – heel, arch and ball of the foot.
Over-Pronation is often referenced as ‘flat feet’. It occurs when the arch of the foot flattens for example when being forced to endure extra weight. The result of this can be that walking is experienced as extremely painful. It can additionally increase strain on the feet, calves and back.
Edema which is also known as swelling in the feet, can also pose a problem in the later months of pregnancy. The primary reason for feet becoming swollen is the displacement of water fluid within the body.
So then, what can be done to alleviate suffering from these conditions and to assist you in having a more enjoyable pregnancy.
· Have a rest – put your feet up
Take every opportunity to rest and elevate your feet. If you find yourself in a position where you have to sit for extended periods of time then rest your feet on a stool to provide elevation.
· Encourage your feet to breathe.
Healthy feet need a breather – avoid any footwear or socks that may constrict your feet.
· Keep active
Taking regular exercise will both improve your overall physical health and aid circulation? If you do find that you have to sit for long periods of time build in occasional `walk abouts` so as to aid circulation.
· Regularly check your foot wear throughout your pregnancy.
Your feet will change and grow, so have them measured regularly throughout your pregnancy.
· Watch your diet
Try to avoid foods that are high in salt as these will result in water retention. A healthy well balanced diet can result in a much happier pregnancy with healthier supportive feet.
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Pregnancy need not present foot problems if a little thought and attention is applied. There are many measures one can take to alleviate or prevent sore feet during pregnancy. For more essential advice, information and resources, regarding foot problems and the management of sore feet, check out:
Recommended Reading
- natural baby care
- Top Tips to Treat and Prevent Childbirth Pain
- Baby Care Tips for the Proper Upbringing of Child
- Premature baby’s first few minutes – NICU Team
- Baby Care Accessories For Healthy Baby Upbringing
- All-natural Childbirth – a Moms Tale
- Baby Care – How to bath a new born baby
- Why are Women Choosing Natural Childbirth
- Natural Childbirth Tips – Natural Childbirth Delivery
- Newborn Baby care made easy for dumb daddies by a dumb daddy. Part Two
- Exercise and Pregnancy (Video)
