Foot discomfort while pregnant is a common problem with as many as half of those who are pregnant suffering from foot pain at some point through the pregnancy. There are many factors during the pregnancy which can be a cause of this. Raising will be the gaining weight. As pregnancy moves along, the body gains weight to support the growing baby. This extra weight might place added pressure about the feet, ultimately causing pain and discomfort. Hormone alterations, in particular the hormone relaxin, can cause the relaxation of ligaments and joints in the body, including those in your feet. This could cause lack of stability and contribute to foot discomfort. Puffiness or oedema, is a common occurence during pregnancy. Fluid retention could cause the feet to get bigger, leading to discomfort as well as difficulties with the fit of the shoes. The hormone variations also affects the arches of the foot. A lot of women who are pregnant experience flattening of the arches, that can lead to overpronation (rolling medially of the feet) and bring about problems. Resulting from increases in bodyweight distribution along with hormonal effects on joints, women who are pregnant may very well change their walking gait, which will contribute to foot pain. Using shoes that lack appropriate support or are way too tight will aggravate foot pain and discomfort during pregnancy. As the womb increases, it may place stress on nerve fibres in the spinal area and pelvis, which might bring about referred pain to the feet and elsewhere. Pregnancy can raise the likelihood of developing varicose veins, which can cause pain and discomfort within the feet and legs.

Some of the conditions that can develop and cause foot pain during pregnancy include stress fractures. Sometimes, the extra weight and alterations in bone density while being pregnant can bring about stress fractures in the feet. Heel pain is a very common disorder relating to inflammation with the plantar fascia, the long ligament which runs across the underside of the foot. Pregnancy-related weight gain and hormone variations can contribute to this problem. This water retention may cause peripheral edema, that is swelling in the arms and legs, along with the feet. This can contribute to discomfort and pain. There are actually a range of steps which can be carried out to relieve foot pain while being pregnant. Choose supportive and comfy footwear with great mid-foot (arch) support. Elevate your feet when resting to reduce puffiness. Complete gentle foot stretches and exercises encouraged by your healthcare provider. Avoid sitting or standing for extented durations. Use cold compresses to minimize inflammation. Practice good posture and body biomechanics while walking and standing up. Look at putting on compression hosiery for increasing blood circulation. When the pain is severe or persistent, speak with your healthcare provider to eliminate any underlying problems.