Pregnancy is one of the most rewarding experiences in the world as you create a new, beautiful life. But it’s also important to acknowledge the impact pregnancy may have on the body. With so many changes happening at once, it’s understandable if you become overwhelmed.
Foot pain is just one of the many experiences pregnant people often go through. It has the potential to make it so much harder to navigate your daily life, but preparation may go a long way. In this article, we aim to help you understand when you may expect foot pain and what you may be able to do to help manage it.
For personalised advice or to book an appointment with Podiatrist in Canberra, contact our team at CBR Podiatry today.
When you may expect foot pain
During pregnancy, your body undergoes a variety of changes, from hormone levels and blood pressure to your weight and more. While some people may experience foot pain early on, in the majority of cases pregnant people experience foot pain in their third trimester. This is when your body is under the most strain and pressure.
Causes of foot pain during pregnancy
There are different causes of foot pain during pregnancy, depending on the type of pain you are experiencing. Here, we’ll outline each so you may be better able to understand what is happening.
1. Swelling
Swelling is an incredibly common occurrence for people who are pregnant. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, which has been known to cause swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles.
Similarly, hormone changes may cause fluid retention in these areas as well. This may cause pain and discomfort in your feet, making them feel tight or heavy.
2. Flat feet
Along with a growing belly, you might notice that your feet are changing shape. This is because of a hormone known as relaxin. This hormone spreads through your body and creates the elasticity it needs to grow and prepare for birth. This has the potential to affect your feet by causing the ligaments to ‘relax’ and impacting your natural arch.
With flatter feet, they may suddenly appear bigger than they actually are. Likewise, it may increase the impact of each step you take. This may cause pain and make walking more exhausting.
3. Aches and cramps
As pregnant people enter the third trimester, many experience aching or even cramping legs. These are often quite painful and may be exhausting to live with. Often, these aches and cramps are attributed to the increased amount of blood circulating the body and the increased pressure placed on the lower limbs.
4. Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of muscle connecting your heel to your toes becomes strained and inflamed. This tends to cause a stabbing pain in your heel every time you move. Usually, this occurs because of overuse, but the additional pressure pregnancy may put on your feet may increase the chances of its development.
5. Balance
As you enter the later stages of pregnancy, your centre of gravity changes. This may make it harder for some to stay upright or even walk in a straight line. You may wobble as you walk and feel less secure. This may increase your chances of tripping or stumbling, which may be frightening.
How you may be able to manage your pain
If you’ve just started experiencing foot pain, there are several ways you may be able to address it at home. Here, we’ll outline useful tips you may use to help your feet feel better:
1. Elevate your legs
When resting, it’s important to keep your legs straight and elevate them when you can. Consider resting lengthways on your couch and putting a pillow underneath your knees and feet. This may make it easier for your body to circulate blood away from the area and reduce swelling and discomfort.
2. Short walks
Though you may be tired, taking a short walk regularly may help you maintain your health. Not only is walking good for your fitness levels, but it may help you maintain a better sense of your centre of gravity as it changes. This may improve your balance and circulation.
However, make sure you are not pushing yourself too far and that you follow any medical advice you may have received. Try walking on flat, clear ground wherever possible in an attempt to avoid tripping hazards.
3. Compression socks
Compression socks may also help you manage pain and swelling. They are designed to apply gentle pressure to the affected area and encourage proper blood flow. This may help to relieve some muscle tension as well as swelling.
However, consider checking with a podiatrist before using this treatment. Without the right care, compression socks could potentially prove ineffective or even detrimental.
4. Massage
Massage is a tried and true way of relieving tension. Consider asking your partner to give you a foot massage or book a day in a spa. With the right care, a massage may improve blood flow and relieve some of your pain.
5. Consult a professional
If you are not sure what is right for you, reach out to a podiatrist. A professional should assess your concerns in an effort to identify the underlying cause. With this, they may offer treatment options designed to help you find relief.
For instance, orthotics, supportive shoes, and tailored exercise recommendations are just a few of the options your podiatrist may use in an effort to relieve some of the pressure placed on your feet.
Furthermore, if you are experiencing high levels of foot pain or a sudden increase in pain, you should seek professional advice.
Find the support you need at CBR Podiatry
At CBR Podiatry, our team understands what you are going through. We offer compassionate, tailored care to help support your pregnancy journey and aim to relieve some of the pain and discomfort you may be experiencing. With the right care, such as with our lengthy appointments where we truly listen to your concerns, you may feel more secure with your movement and reduce the impact your body’s changes may have on your feet. Book your appointment today!
