Health Tip: Pregnancy and Foot Health

Stages of Pregnancy Slideshow

(HealthDay News) -- Pregnancy can trigger aches and pains all over your body, from your head to your toes.

The American Podiatric Medical Association offers these suggestions to help ease the burden on your feet while you're pregnant:

• Prop up your feet whenever you can. But avoid sitting with your legs or ankles crossed, which could impair circulation.
• When sitting for a long time, stretch your legs often.
• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that fit well. Your shoe size may change during pregnancy.
• If you have flat feet, buy a pair of running shoes for everyday walking or exercise, as they offer superior shock absorption.
• Skip the high heels; low heels are fine.
• When you feel a leg cramp, walk the cramp out. To help prevent leg cramps, exercise the muscles by gently rotating your ankles to the left and right.

-- Diana Kohnle

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