Solving children’s foot pain

Posted on: 24 March 2015

If you are pregnant and experiencing foot pain, leg cramps or varicose veins you are not alone. Use this guide to learn more about your foot health during this important nine month phase and benefit from some suggestions to alleviate your discomfort.

Understand Why Foot Problems Develop During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, as the body prepares for child birth, hormones are released that cause the ligaments of the feet to relax. Your additional weight also creates a different stance that puts extra pressure on your feet. The most common foot problems during pregnancy are over-pronation and oedema.

Know How to Deal with Over-Pronation

Quite often the body changes triggered by pregnancy can cause flattening of the arches of the feet or over-pronation and it results in heel or arch pain and cramping.

Choose shoes that offer good arch support and shock absorption or try using one of over- the- counter insoles. However, you may find that you need a customized orthotic from a podiatrist to properly correct the problem.

A professional examination can provide the right degree of arch support and the appropriate correction measures to ensure that your foot rests at the correct angle and your weight is distributed evenly.

It is vital to attend to over-pronation in the early stages because if it is left untreated it can lead to more serious foot conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, Tendonitis and Heel Spurs.

Be Aware of Oedema

Swollen feet or oedema will usually happen in the later stages of pregnancy during the third trimester. It is the result of extra fluid building up and pooling in the body's extremities, usually in the feet.

• As the uterus enlarges extra pressure is placed on blood vessels in the legs and pelvis and consequently the circulation is slowed.

• The water fluid in the body becomes displaced and is often retained, adding to the swelling.

It is wise to always see your doctor right away if you experience any noticeable swelling.

Minimize the Effects of Oedema

Use these techniques to help reduce your symptoms and feel much more comfortable.

• Put your feet up at every opportunity—if at work use a footstool under your desk—elevation is essential

• Choose footwear that is a proper fit and provides firm support—change your shoes as your pregnancy progresses; you are likely to need a larger size

• If driving for longer periods, take regular breaks to exercise the legs and boost circulation

• Avoid foods with a high salt content as they encourage fluid retention

• Wear compressions socks and tights that aid circulation

• Take walks or swim for regular exercise and overall health

• Treat yourself to a foot and ankle massage