“Individual consideration is key”

The structure of the foot usually changes during pregnancy. During the early stages in particular, the height and stability of the medial longitudinal arch reduce. The length of the foot also increases. Dr. Andreas Metzger, German specialist in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, explains whether and how foot orthoses can alleviate symptoms resulting from these changes.

Dr. Metzger: Loosening of the ligaments affected by hormones and increased mechanical strain can lead to lowering of the medial longitudinal arch, which is often associated with more pronounced pronation. This can result in pain in the feet, knees, hip, and back. Even though it can be explained easily from a biomechanical perspective the context in clinical work is often underestimated.

Dr. Metzger: In treatment focusing on symptoms, individually adapted foot orthoses are a key option. The targeted support of the medial longitudinal arch can stabilize the posture of the foot, reduce pronation, and positively influence relief of the entire lower extremity. If a patient suffers from existing symptoms or pronounced hyperpronation, use is easily justified from an orthopedic perspective.

Dr. Metzger: Individual consideration is key. A generalized prophylactic treatment of all pregnant women is currently not justified based on evidence. Early treatment can be beneficial for patients with symptoms or functional anomalies – during the early stages of pregnancy in particular because that is when major structural adjustments happen. In order to prevent long-term problems, a qualified footwear consultation and regular monitoring of the foot development can help.

“When is intervention necessary?“ – Read more about the provision of medical aids during pregnancy in the expert article with gynecologist Dr. Susann Jäkel.

Pictures: Udo Schönewald, Bauerfeind AG