Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texarkana and, Mount Pleasant, TX and Nashville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Swelling is an unpleasant but common part of pregnancy. When fluid builds up in areas like your legs, ankles, feet,
face, and hands, it's called edema. You may notice this more during your third trimester. Most women get what doctors call physiologic edema. It is very common, and there's no reason to be concerned. Your growing uterus can interrupt
blood flow and cause more fluid to stay in your leg veins. The extra liquid goes into nearby tissue. That causes the tissue to swell. Your body also makes more of some hormones when you’re pregnant. That can also make you hold fluid and look puffy. In rare cases, swelling can be a sign of a serious condition, like a
blood clot or something called preeclampsia. If your swelling comes on suddenly, let your doctor know right away. Swollen feet shouldn't be a cause for concern. They often go away within a few weeks of giving birth. Until then, you can try these solutions for relief: Take it easy. Swelling can get worse when you spend long amounts of
time standing and walking. Rest often, and elevate your feet. Gentle massage strokes toward your heart are another way to soothe your feet and move fluid away from them. A cool
Epsom salts soak can ease pain that can come from the swelling. Try this yoga pose. Place your raised legs against a wall as you
lie on your back, or your left side. The large vein that brings blood from your lower body to your heart won’t have the weight of your uterus on it. Use compression socks. These stop fluid from building up. You should start with ones with light compression and put them on when you wake up. These are different from other socks or pant bottoms that are too tight
around your ankles and calves and block blood flow. Move around a little. Light exercise, like multiple short walks throughout the day, or simply flexing your foot can help prevent swelling that can happen when you stay in one position for
too long.What You Can Do
Time in the pool may be beneficial, too. As you walk in a pool, your muscles help move fluid out of tissues. You should talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise routine.
Hydrate. Eight to 10 glasses of water each day can keep you hydrated and help keep your body from holding onto extra fluid.
Keep a healthy weight. Your doctor may not want you to lose any weight since you're pregnant, but you can ask if you should. Also, find out how much salt and carbohydrates you should have. Too much of either can lead to swelling.
Talk with your doctor. They may have other ideas you can try.
When to See Your Doctor
Swelling during pregnancy is normal. But sometimes, it can be a sign of something more serious. Call your doctor if you have sudden swelling in your face and hands. Also give a call if, in addition to your swelling, you have:
- Intense headaches
- A hard time breathing
- Blurry vision
- One leg that's red, painful, and feels warm
- Blisters and a warm, tender red rash