Foot Health Advice During Pregnancy

Weight gain and hormonal changes in pregnancy have a huge impact on the body and your feet. Many women find they are unable to reach their feet in the later stages of pregnancy and can suffer with swelling, cramps, aching, itchiness and varicose veins on their lower limbs.  In this publication we offer some important advice to keep your feet comfortable.

Top tips for healthy feet during pregnancy:

• Raise your feet and legs up whenever you can and do daily leg and calf stretches
• Don’t cross your legs or ankles when sitting
• Keep active - keep the lower limbs moving even when resting. Prevent cramps from occurring by boosting circulation – try rotating your ankles ten times to the left and ten times to the right, and repeating. Before you start an exercise programme, check with your midwife or GP
• If you experience arch pain visit a podiatrist who, if necessary, will be able to provide special inserts for your shoes to help treat the problem. These may be temporary and can give a great deal of relief.
• Wear surgical stockings – with advice from your midwife, GP or health professional 
  
  

Top tips for buying footwear for pregnancy:

• Feet tend to swell during the day, so buy shoes later in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest
• Try on both shoes and walk around the shop to check if they pinch or rub
• Make sure there is 1cm between the longest toe and the end of the shoe
• Keep heel heights to about 3cm 
• Choose a shoe with a strap to keep it firmly on your foot, avoiding fiddly straps which are difficult to do up – especially in the final trimester of your pregnancy! 
• Choose shoes with a toe box that is high enough and wide enough to comfortably fit, either rounded or square shaped, not pointed 
• Choose supportive footwear with extra shock absorption, a supportive arch and firm heel. 
• Avoid wearing high heels as this can place unnecessary pressure on your joints at a time when they are already under strain 

Why not treat yourself to one of our Deluxe treatment packages to keep your feet in tip top condition and feeling amazing. To book an appointment head to our 'Contact us' area or email Bruce@podiatryshetland.co.uk

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(Adapted from the College of Podiatry)