So whats going on with my feet?
Natural weight gain during pregnancy alters the body's centre of gravity and this affects the weight bearing on the feet, as well as on the whole posture including ankles, knees, hip and back. Unfortunately this causes foot pain and heel pain and tired feet for many women. The only consolation is these conditions will stop soon after birth.

The most common foot problems experienced by pregnant women are over-pronation that can lead to flat foot and oedema or swelling in the foot and ankle.

Over-Pronation or in-rolling As a result of excess weight and pressure on the feet, the arch in your foot flattens out causing the appearance of a flat foot. This creates strains and stresses on the foot ligaments and can cause inflammation in the feet known as plantar faciitis. This excess pressure can also lead to heel pain as well as knee pain, shin splints, achilles tendonitis. This condition can be helped with the use of orthotics or insoles that will create an arch support making walking more comfortable.

Oedema or Swelling in the Feet
During the later stages of pregnancy swelling of the feet and ankles is more pronounced. Pregnant women may experience heel pain and tired feet. Most cases of swelling during pregnancy are mild but it is wise to consult a Doctor especially if the condition is associated with high blood pressure.

What are the symptoms?
Normally you will feel a sense of heavy legs with pain along the sole of the foot. This pain may be diffused or appear as heel pain and pain in the ball of the foot. You may also experience a sense of aching feet and tired feet due to the swelling in the feet and swelling in the ankles and legs. This can also lead to varicose veins and leg cramping.

Feetlife recommends

• Put your feet up as often as possible! It is important to elevate your feet in order to improve circulation as well as reducing heel pain and tired feet.
• Take regular walking exercise which will promote muscle action and will drive the blood upward away from the feet reducing heel pain and tired feet.
• Wear comfortable shoes that do not constrict your feet and do not wear socks that are too tight to provide good foot support.
• Consult your Doctor for the use of elasticated stockings.
• Use insoles and orthoticsthat will correct the in-rolling of the feet and will provide arch support. Soft insoles will provide shock absorption and reduce heel pain.
• Drink plenty of water as this will help clear up fluid retention.
• Massage your feet and legs gently in an upwards direction which will also help drive the fluid away and alleviate pains of tired feet.