Have you noticed that your feet seem bigger while you are pregnant or post natal? You are not imagining things! They may actually be bigger.
Relaxin Hormone
You may have heard of a hormone called relaxin. It is secreted by the corpus luteum and ovaries during your menstrual cycle and further by the placenta during pregnancy. It is not just a female hormone, men secrete relaxin through the prostate also. Generally, it plays a large role in tissue remodelling after injury of muscle, tendons, ligaments and bone in both sexes.
Relaxin and your feet during pregnancy
- Plantar Fasciopathy (heel or arch pain)
- Top of foot pain
- Toe joint capsule injury
- Achilles Tendinopathy
- Callused skin to high pressure areas
Trouble with your feet can extend beyond or appear after pregnancy. In some cases, the effects of Relaxin on the feet can remain. This means the stretchy supporting ligaments stay lengthened and don’t reduce back to their original functional length. Sometimes it’s not until after Pregnancy and you start to exercise again that your feet or ankles start to give you some trouble.
Managing foot pain during pregnancy
If you do develop discomfort in your feet during or after pregnancy, you’re not alone. It is very common and in the majority of cases it will not be an issue beyond your baby’s birth. For some women, their foot pain may need some attention. So what should you do if your feet start to get sore?
First thing is check your footwear. Are they the right size? If they feel tight, invest in a new pair of comfortable shoes with a stable yet soft sole with plenty of room for the toes. When you’re out of the shoes with your feet up, try to do some toe waving exercises. This is a simple movement you can do sitting or laying.
If your pain or discomfort is following you around everywhere or you’re unsure of what shoes to wear or care for your feet, speak to a Podiatrist. There are many ways a Podiatrist can help get you through your pregnancy without the burden of foot pain or get you back exercising postpartum. This can be through:
- Foot mobilisation
- Dry Needling (postnatal only) and soft tissue release
- Exercise Therapies
- Foot orthoses
- Footwear advice
- General nail and skin care
If you’re in need of some advice, our Podiatrist at PhysioPod Co. can help you get through your pregnancy or get you back to your active self after bub.
Author
Sports Podiatrist
(BHlthSc. Podiatry) M. A. Pod. Asc
