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Heel Pain During Pregnancy

 

During pregnancy a lot of changes are happening to your body and one that many women do not associated with their new changing body is heel pain during pregnancy.

Foot and heel pain during pregnancy are a lot more common than you may think.

Such conditions as heel pain, foot and ankle swelling, varicose veins and leg cramps can all be common concerns during pregnancy. Your toenails, which become increasingly harder to reach also grow quicker!

So what causes heel pain during pregnancy and what can you do about it?

Causes of Heel Pain During Pregnancy:

  • Hormonal changes and increase in relaxin, which help relax ligaments and other structures to allow for birth. These same hormones can also relax the ligaments in your feet, leading to flat feet (fallen arches) and overpronation.
  • Increase in weight during pregnancy.
  • Center of gravity changes, effecting the way that you walk and stand.
  • Changes to your regular exercise and load patterns.

Prevention and Treatment for Heel Pain During Pregnancy;

Follow these tips:

  • Avoid walking barefoot- as this will allow your arches to flatten more.
  • Wear supportive runners or arch support thongs, such as Archie’s thongs around the house.
  • Avoid standing for long periods of time.
  • Take a break when you can, sit down and elevate your feet.
  • Use a small spiky ball to roll and massage under your feet daily and stretch your calf muscles.
  • If you still have problems, see a podiatrist asap as this condition can cause increased pain and lead to difficulty with walking.

At Well Heeled Podiatry we are experienced in treating heel pain, using unique and effective treatments. We can also assist you with routine care such as cutting your nails and removing any hard skin that may be difficult to do yourself while pregnant.

Please also ensure you do not cut your nails too short during pregnancy. Due to increase in swelling in the feet and poor visibility to our toes, with an every growing baby the risk of ingrown toenails is higher. It is much safer to have a podiatrist attend to your feet during this time to avoid any unwanted complications.

About The Author - Monique Milne

Monique Milne is the experienced Director of Well Heeled Podiatry, offering comprehensive podiatry care with a focus on sports podiatry. Her expertise spans a wide range of services, including biomechanical and gait assessments, 3D scanning and orthotics, nail surgery, children's lower limb development, and treatment for various foot and leg conditions.


With advanced qualifications in shockwave therapy, foot mobilisation and manipulation techniques (FMT), tool-assisted massage (TAS), prolotherapy, and dry needling, Monique provides cutting-edge treatments for musculoskeletal conditions of the feet and lower limbs. Well Heeled Podiatry also offers specialized services such as pre-pointe assessments, Keryflex treatments, and Moon Boot fittings.


Monique's professional background includes working in a High Risk Multidisciplinary Foot and Leg Clinic at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in South Australia, collaborating with various medical specialists. Her experience extends to public speaking, presenting educational material, and supervising podiatry and medical students. Recognized by the Australian Podiatry Association and Sports Medicine Australia, Monique is dedicated to excellence in podiatry care and continuously seeks passionate, like-minded podiatrists to join her team at Well Heeled Podiatry.