Put Your Best Foot Forward During Pregnancy

At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle we know that pregnancy is an exciting time. It can be a challenging time for your feet, however. Being pregnant causes many changes in your body. Below are some ways you can take care of your feet and ankles while you are expecting.

Don’t ignore foot pain. Gaining weight while you’re pregnant, even though it’s only temporary, puts strain on your feet. Excess weight can make chronic foot problems worse and it can cause new issues. For example, your arches may start to flatten which may in turn hurt your heels. Changes in your gait as you adjust to carrying the extra weight may also leave your feet or ankles sore and aching. It’s important to have our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, examine your feet if they are bothering you to make sure no injuries have occurred. The foot doctor may recommend an orthotic for your shoes to provide better support and he can also offer suggestions for ways to reduce discomfort.

Buy bigger shoes. Hormones that are released to loosen ligaments as your body prepares to give birth also relax of the ligaments in your feet. This may cause feet to spread and shoes to start to feel tight. Don’t wear shoes that hurt your feet. Purchase a couple of pairs to fit your current size. For some women, shoe size remains larger even after the baby is born.

Take your time. Your center of balance will gradually change as the baby grows and it will also get more difficult to see what’s on the ground in front of you. Allow extra time to get where you’re going. Rushing can lead to a trip or fall that could lead to a foot or ankle injury.

Put your feet up. Periods of rest with your feet elevated can help reduce foot pain and also relieve swelling in your feet and ankles. It’s also a good idea to drink more water to help your body eliminate excess fluids.

If you have questions about your feet during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office.