If you’re pregnant, you’re probably noticing head-to-toe changes in your body. Perhaps you have experienced one or more of these common pregnancy-related changes:
- increased rate of hair and nail growth
- dryer or oiler skin than usual and a return of teenage acne
- indigestion
- bleeding gums
- increased metabolism leading to a periodic feeling of being too warm
Did you know the blood volume in a woman’s body can increase by up to 50% during pregnancy? Combined with normal pregnancy-related weight gain, this can cause a great deal of stress on the bones and soft tissues of the feet, ankles, and lower legs, and pregnant women often report changes such as:
- Increased foot size: Feet can grow up to a full size during pregnancy. To prevent foot pain that can result from wearing too-small shoes, pregnant women should have their feet professionally measured periodically.
- Leg cramps: These are common during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. To minimize your risk, eat nutritious foods, and talk to your doctor about safe supplements that may help.
- Foot pain: There are 26 bones in each foot, arranged in a series of delicate arches and supported by numerous muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues. When they are working hard to carry both you and your baby, flattened arches and other conditions leading to discomfort can result.
The good news is a foot doctor like Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM is expert in caring for patients of all ages, including pregnant women. At your appointment, your doctor will examine your feet, ankles, and lower legs, arrive at a specific and accurate diagnosis; and work with you to create an effective plan for treatment and ongoing care. Many options are entirely non-invasive, including orthotics, custom shoe inserts for extra cushioning and support.
Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? Don’t let foot pain have a negative effect on this special time in your life. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos in our modern, convenient Ravenswood office today.