Take Care of Feet and Ankles During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a joyous time for most women. It can be challenging, however, to deal with the physical changes that take place. Of course, there’s the weight gain necessary to carry a child, but other, more negative side effects can occur. Many women experience heartburn or other digestive changes. Some find themselves feeling like their nose is always stuffy or that their sense of smell becomes more acute, especially where unpleasant aromas are concerned.

Did you know that foot and ankle complaints are common during pregnancy? Cook County podiatrist Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos treats pregnant women regularly, often for conditions including:

• Swelling: Known medically as edema, swelling of the feet, ankles, and lower legs are common during pregnancy when the body retains fluids. One way to prevent swelling is to drink plenty of water during the day. Avoid beverages containing caffeine, which can exacerbate the problem.
• Discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis: The extra weight of your pregnancy can stress the soft tissue that spans the length of the sole of your foot from heel to toe. Report any foot pain to your podiatrist, especially if it’s concentrated at the heel or seems worse first thing in the morning. Your foot doctor can diagnose the source of your discomfort and can often offer non-invasive treatment through the prescription of orthotics, custom shoe inserts to provide improved cushioning and support.
• Leg cramps: The body’s changes during pregnancy can affect the delicate balance of electrolytes in the body. Muscle cramps often result. These painful “charley horses” can even happen overnight, waking you from a sound sleep. Discuss your symptoms with your podiatrist. They will be able to offer suggestions that can provide relief.

Are you dealing with the effects of pregnancy, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is a medical specialist and the best-qualified doctor to care for this part of your body. Schedule an appointment with Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to start today.