…The current review sought to analyze the evidence for changes in foot biomechanics during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
These authors found that around half of the body mass acquired during pregnancy is in the woman’s abdominal region (anterior part of the trunk), which leads to changes in the center of gravity and more significant oscillations in the center of pressure. These factors induce disturbances in the pregnant woman’s gait. Changes in foot size may also be due to fluid retention during pregnancy. In the study by Alcahuz-Grinan, a slight increase was reported during thethird trimester, which normalizes after delivery.
…In addition, the increases in step width and the kinetic parameters of hip and ankle gait characterize the regular gait pattern in late pregnancy, implying greater use of the hip abductor, hip extensor, and ankle plantar flexor muscle groups. Overuse of these muscle groups during pregnancy can be a contributing factor to lower back pain, foot pain, and painful muscle cramps in gastrocnemius.
…Starting exercise programs in the early stages of pregnancy will help adjust to changes in static and dynamic grip parameters and balance, especially in the third trimester.
Source: Zangão MOB, Poeira AF, Branco M, Santos-Rocha R. Changes in foot biomechanics during pregnancy and postpartum: scoping review. Inter J Environ Res Publ Health. 2024;21(5):638. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050638
