Study reveals changes in the walking patterns of pregnant women both during and after pregnancy
There are a number of changes that take place in a woman’s body as a result of gaining weight during pregnancy.
These changes affect overall posture which can lead to adjustments in the walking patterns of pregnant women.
Some of the modifications that have been noted in past studies include shorter steps, slower pace of walking, longer contact of both feet with the ground, etc.
For this study, the walking patterns of sixteen healthy pregnant women were analysed during the second trimester, third trimester and four months following delivery.
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The authors observed that due to weight gain particularly in the torso region, pregnant women showed altered movements in their lower bodies especially in the lower part of the abdomen and the hip.
There were also reports of increased stiffness in the ankle joints.
It is important to note since pregnant women have a higher risk of falling, ankle stiffness is commonly adopted as a way to enhance posture control and maintain stability while walking.
The study also determined a redistribution of pressure in the foot which is often responsible for foot pain and other foot complaints in pregnant women.
The authors explained that a possible drop in the level of the foot arch combined with foot stiffness can modify the way pressure is distributed in the feet during pregnancy.
Four months after delivery, the women included in the study were found to have normal walking patterns similar to non-pregnant women.
To read the full study, please click here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5797072/
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The support provided by these insoles helps to promote healthy movement of the foot-ankle structure. This is because the foot and ankle joints are able to move within their normal range of motion.
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