Our Skilled Austin Foot Doctors Explain Why a Podiatrist Can Be a Pregnant Woman’s New Best Friend
When you’re pregnant, your body produces and retains more fluid and blood to nourish your baby. Because the uterus places immense pressure on blood vessels, those vessels have a difficult time pumping blood out of your legs and feet. Add that the extra fluid in your body tends to gather in your lower extremities, and it’s no surprise that a pregnant woman’s feet and ankles swell. 
The top-rated podiatrists at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists frequently treat expectant mothers for pregnancy-related podiatry issues. Here, we discuss common feet and ankle problems pregnant women face, how to help alleviate some of the pain and swelling, and the podiatric care they can offer pregnant women.
Common Foot, Leg, and Ankle Problems During Pregnancy
Pregnancy creates a variety of side effects, including backaches, nausea, and fatigue, and nearly 80% of pregnant women experience swelling, also known as edema. The stress of the extra pregnancy weight and swelling can lead to many foot, leg, and ankle conditions. You may experience the following changes in your lower extremities:
Reduced Arch Support
Pregnancy causes hormone changes in the body. Two hormones that are found naturally in the body are relaxin and progesterone. Both help relax your muscles and allow ligaments to be more flexible and stretch more easily, and both hormones increase during pregnancy and are particularly important in the pelvic region to help with the birthing process. However, these two hormones can allow ligaments to have too much flexibility, which can lead to ligament laxity. For feet, this can mean less arch support. Additionally, extra pregnancy weight increases the pressure on the looser structure of the feet and can cause certain types of foot conditions and pain, including plantar fasciitis and tendon and muscle strains. These factors may cause your foot to become wider, and you may need a larger shoe size. This change in your foot structure may be a permanent change following pregnancy.
Changes in the Way You Walk
When you’re pregnant, the way you walk—your gait—can change. Your spine and pelvis may begin to curve inward to support a growing abdomen, and you may develop a leaned-back posture. You may also develop a “waddling gait” due to the changes in your center of gravity. This may happen as you gradually shift your weight toward the heel of your foot to compensate for this change.
Ingrown Toenails
During pregnancy, there are certain factors that increase your risk of developing ingrown toenails, including hormonal changes that lead to swollen feet, fluid retention, and changes in the curvature and shape of your nails. Swollen feet may make it impossible to fit into the shoes you used to wear, and tight shoes can increase the risk of developing an ingrown toenail. Also, nails may grow faster during pregnancy, meaning that toenails need to be trimmed more often. However, reaching your toenails can be difficult when you’re pregnant, making it a challenge to stay on top of nail trimming.
Swelling
Edema is a typical problem that can accompany pregnancy, and usually, it comes on gradually. However, if swelling comes on suddenly, is developing in your hands and face, and is very severe, especially if it is only in one leg, it could be a sign of preeclampsia or a blood clot. It’s important to contact your OB-GYN immediately.
Caring for Your Feet During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, your body is under stress, and your feet must handle more weight. They may become achy, swollen, and sore and need extra attention to keep them healthy. Here are some tips for keeping your feet, ankles, and legs more comfortable during pregnancy:
Elevate and Rest Your Feet
If your feet and ankles are swelling, take breaks throughout the day and prop your feet up when you can. This can improve circulation and reduce swelling. If possible, avoid sitting or standing for long periods, and try to sleep with your feet elevated on a pillow. Always talk to your podiatrist about the best methods for helping to reduce swelling.
Wear Compression Socks
Compression socks can help improve your circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet. These therapeutic socks squeeze the legs and ankles, helping your blood vessels to work more efficiently. They improve circulation by allowing your arteries and muscles in your lower limbs to relax and encourage blood to flow back to your heart. It’s important to ask your podiatrist which type of compression socks are right for you and your unique pregnancy situation.
Choose Shoes Carefully
As your feet swell, you may find that your shoes don’t fit anymore, and you need to buy new ones. It’s best to try on new shoes in the afternoon when your feet are likely to be the most swollen. Look for shoes with good arch support to distribute your weight evenly and help reduce stress on your feet. It’s best to avoid flats and high heels. If you buy a shoe with a low heel, it can help relieve pressure on your lower back and improve your posture. You may want to invest in orthotics or maternity shoes to give you more support and cushioning.
Soak Your Feet
Immersing your feet and ankles in warm water can help ease swelling and foot pain. You may also want to add some Epsom salt, as well. Be sure your water is not too hot.
Limit Salt Intake
A normal amount of sodium is necessary during pregnancy because it helps to maintain the balance between the fluids and minerals in the body. However, excessive salt intake can increase fluid retention and contribute to the swelling in your feet and ankles, as well as contribute to increased blood pressure.
What Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists Can Offer Pregnant Patients
The podiatrists at our Central Texas office can provide several services to help pregnant patients care for their feet prior to and following delivery:
- Trimming toenails to decrease the risk of ingrown nails
- Treating ingrown toenails
- Offering professional advice about what compression socks and shoes may be most beneficial
- Recommending orthtics to prevent long-term issues that may make structural changes in your feet during pregnancy
