Pregnancy and Foot Health

Pregnancy Foot Care: A Guide for Expectant Mums

Are you an expectant mum struggling with foot discomfort? As your baby grows, the weight gain and hormonal changes can wreak havoc on your feet. With the centre of gravity shifting forward, you may find yourself waddling with turned-out feet to maintain balance. This adaptation can strain the tendons, muscles, and ligaments in your feet, leading to pain and swelling. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with this guide to foot care during pregnancy.

Common Foot Concerns and Solutions

Swollen Feet and Ankles
The added pressure from your growing bump can cause fluid retention, leading to puffy feet and ankles. Elevate your legs regularly and wear compression socks to alleviate swelling.

Flattened Arches
The relaxin hormone, which loosens ligaments for childbirth, can also flatten your arches. Invest in supportive insoles like the Super Sport to keep your foot bones in their natural position.

Bunions and Corns
The increased pressure and weight can exacerbate existing bunions or cause corns. Protect these sensitive areas with soft gel bunion guards and toe protectors.

Footwear Essentials

Opt for comfortable, well-fitting shoes with plenty of room for your expanding feet. Pregnancy can cause your feet to grow up to two sizes larger, so regularly update your footwear.

Look for shoes with excellent arch support, cushioning, and a wide toe box to accommodate swelling.

Avoid high heels, which can further strain your feet and throw off your balance.

Foot Care Routine

Stretch and Exercise: Gentle pregnancy-safe exercises and stretches can improve circulation and relieve muscle tension in your feet and legs.

Massage: Treat yourself to regular foot massages to soothe aches and promote relaxation.

Pedicures: Indulge in professional pedicures for essential grooming and pampering during this special time.

  • Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
  • Use arch supports, such as our Super Sport. Their moulded design supports both front-to-back and side-to-side arches, keeping these bones in their natural position, thus reducing stress and strain to the tender areas
  • Try to rest your legs regularly, ideally in an elevated position
  • Develop a programme of stretches to help counteract the added strain put on tendons and ligaments
  • Begin a supervised exercise program
  • Relieve the pressure of uncomfortable bunions and corns with specially developed soft gel products such as our  Corn wraps and Toe Protector

Consult a Podiatrist

If you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or other concerns, don’t hesitate to consult a podiatrist. These foot care specialists can assess your condition and provide personalised treatment plans to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your pregnancy journey.

Embrace the changes, but don’t neglect your feet, mums-to-be! Follow these tips for happy, healthy feet as you embark on the exciting adventure of motherhood.

Some Profoot products to help with Pregnancy and Foot Health: