Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Pregnancy and Podiatry


                    
One would not normally associate pregnancy with the practice of podiatry.  On further examination though, pregnancy does greatly affect the legs and feet.
                    
As the body prepares for delivery, hormones facilitate stretching of the ligaments throughout the body, including the feet.  As the ligaments relax, the foot loses structural integrity and allows the foot to flatten out.  This can cause general foot pain, particularly in the arches.  It may also cause back aches, and pain in the knees and thighs, as a result of faulty foot structure.  These stretched ligaments may require several months to return to normal, after delivery.  Fortunately, arch supports or orthotics may support the feet and provide the proper alignment to prevent the excessive strain that causes the pain.
                    
Other common problems associated with pregnancy include varicose veins, phlebitis and calcium deficiency.  Plantar warts may appear during the first trimester, but soon disappear after delivery.
                    
Walking, compression stockings, supportive shoes and orthotics could alleviate or control many of the foot and leg problems that pregnancy can cause.

Evan Kelner DPM