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Why are my feet swelling so much?
Changing body shape and weight triggered by pregnancy will affect your lower extremities in numerous ways. One of the most common of these is tired, sore and swollen feet.
One reason this occurs is the altered center of gravity you will experience during pregnancy. The weight you gain and the places you gain it in will change your weight-bearing stance and add pressure to your knees and feet. This can even lead to flat feet.
Another common foot condition brought on by pregnancy is edema, or swelling of the feet, caused by pressure from the uterus that leads to hampered circulation. Edema generally occurs later in pregnancy and is considered normal unless accompanied by swelling of the face or hands.
There are several things you can do to treat your swollen feet during pregnancy:
- Elevate your feet as often as you can
- Wear non-constricting socks that are seamless
- Take regular breaks from driving or computer-use to stretch the legs and promote circulation
- Walk around or exercise
- Avoid salty foods that cause fluid retention
You may also wish to visit a local pedorthist. Pedorthists specialize in fitting shoes and orthotics to alleviate foot problems. Periodic measuring is recommended because the feet may increase in size during the pregnancy.
| Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor. |
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