<h6>One of the most important parts of our body––our feet––are often overlooked during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Here’s how you can better support your body (and your little one, too).</h6>
 To everyone on the outside, it’s obvious the way a body evolves during pregnancy. This transformative journey affects nearly every part of a woman’s anatomy, right down to her feet. Changes can be temporary or long-lasting, subtle or dramatic, and understanding them is crucial for maintaining comfort and mobility during and after pregnancy. Here are some common changes that occur in women’s feet during pregnancy, and best of all, how to support and care for this all-important body part.
WHAT HAPPENS TO FEET DURING PREGNANCY
Swelling (Edema): Many women experience swelling in their feet and ankles, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. This occurs due to the body retaining more fluids and the growing uterus putting pressure on veins, thus reducing blood circulation.
How to Support: Elevating the feet whenever possible, staying hydrated, and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting can help reduce swelling. Compression stockings can also be beneficial. For soothing, end-of-day relief, take a bath with Epsom salt soaks (½ cup per quart of water) with a few drops of lavender oil.
Increased Foot Size: It’s not uncommon for a woman’s feet to grow by a half size or more during pregnancy. This change can be due to the loosening of ligaments caused by the hormone relaxin, which prepares the body for childbirth. It also affects the feet.
How to Support: Investing in well-fitting, supportive shoes is essential. Women may need to purchase a larger size or opt for footwear with soft leather or stretchy material to accommodate their changing foot size.
Flattening of the Arches: The extra weight gained during pregnancy can cause the arches of the feet to flatten, a condition known as overpronation. This can lead to foot pain, particularly in the heel and arch areas.
How to Support: Wearing shoes with good arch support, using orthotic inserts, and performing foot-strengthening exercises can help manage this issue. Custom orthotics may be necessary in some cases.
Increased Foot Pain: Foot pain, including heel pain from plantar fasciitis, can develop or worsen during pregnancy. The added weight and pressure on the feet, combined with hormonal changes and your biomechanics can contribute to this discomfort.
How to Support: Gentle calf stretching exercises, regular foot massages, and wearing cushioned shoes and orthotics can alleviate some of the pain. Ice packs and rest are also effective in managing discomfort.
Varicose Veins: Pregnant women are more prone to developing varicose veins in their legs and feet due to increased blood volume and pressure on the veins. This can cause discomfort and visible changes.
How to Support: Wearing compression stockings, elevating the feet, and avoiding prolonged standing can help reduce the risk and severity of varicose veins. Regular exercise can also improve circulation.
MY FEET WILL GO BACK TO NORMAL, RIGHT? MAYBE NOT. 
After childbirth, some of the changes that occurred during pregnancy may persist, while others gradually return to pre-pregnancy conditions. Some women find that their feet remain permanently larger or that their arches do not fully recover, leading to a new shoe size and shape of the foot. Foot pain, especially in the arch and heel, may continue after pregnancy. Wearing supportive footwear and using orthotic devices can help manage ongoing discomfort. While opting into different footwear or larger sizes may be a minor inconvenience, it’s worth the effort. Our feet are our foundation, and their health has a domino effect on the rest of our body.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT POSTPARTUM FOOT HEALTH AFTER THE BABY IS BORN 
Gradually Return to Pre-Pregnancy Activities: After childbirth, it’s important to ease back into physical activities. Start with low-impact exercises like walking, stretching, and gentle yoga poses. As you begin to feel stronger, increase intensity. This will help avoid overstressing the feet.
Continue Wearing Supportive Footwear: Even after pregnancy, wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning is important, especially if your foot size has changed or if you experience flattening of the arches.
Foot Exercises: Strengthening and stretching exercises can help restore foot function and alleviate pain. Focus on exercises that target the arches, toes, and ankles: Tracing the alphabet (capital letters) with your foot or trying to pick up marbles with your toes and dropping them into a cup. This helps strengthen the small, intrinsic muscles of the feet which aid in balance and stability. 
Monitor Foot Health: Pay attention to any persistent foot issues, such as pain, swelling, or varicose veins. If problems persist, consult a healthcare professional or podiatrist for further diagnosis and treatment.
BE PROACTIVE TO AVOID PAIN
Pregnancy marks the start of feeling as though everything is out of our control––including the size, shape, and comfort of our feet. But by taking proactive measures, women can mitigate the impact of these changes and continue to enjoy healthy, pain-free feet long after pregnancy. (And luxury shoes, too.)

One of the most important parts of our body––our feet––are often overlooked during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Here’s how you can better support your body (and your little one, too).

Babies Change Everything: The Impact of Pregnancy on Women's Feet

<h6 data-mce-fragment="1">Don’t exacerbate foot-related issues with the wrong shoes. Dr. Terri, TFR's podiatrist, weighs in on where to start. </h6>
If someone says “bunion-friendly footwear” and your mind goes straight to the beige Dr. Scholl’s of yore, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, many of us don’t have particularly high sartorial standards for shoes that offer support and style. Bunions and hammertoes, both technically classified as deformities, can be a challenge when it comes to finding the right shoes to not only provide comfort but also support feet properly. Wearing the wrong footwear can be more detrimental than you might imagine. It can make these foot conditions worse, leading to pain, discomfort, and even worsening the deformities.
Thankfully, brands like TFR are evolving those comfort standards in footwear, but overall, the industry has a ways to go. Here are a few things you can look for in your next pair of shoes to avoid further foot discomfort.
STRUCTURAL DETAILS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING SHOES FOR BUNIONS AND HAMMERTOES
Toe Box Width &amp; Depth: Look for shoes with a wide and deep toe box. This is essential to prevent pressure on your bunion or the tops of hammertoes. A spacious toe box allows your toes to spread naturally and prevents rubbing, which can aggravate these conditions. Avoid shoes with pointed or narrow toe boxes, as they can crowd your toes and increase discomfort.
Soft, Flexible Upper: Shoes made from soft materials like leather, suede, or stretchy fabric are ideal because they can form to the shape of your foot, reducing friction and pressure on bony areas. Avoid stiff materials like hard leather or synthetic fabrics that do not give enough flexibility, especially around the toe area.
A Low, Stable Heel: A heel height of less than 1.5 inches to a maximum of 2 inches is recommended. High heels place excess pressure on the ball of the foot, which can worsen bunion pain and contribute to the development of hammertoes. Look for shoes with a stable base, preferably square, which provides better overall support, as a skinny heel can lead to foot imbalance and further strain on your toes.
Supportive Insoles &amp; Cushioning: Shoes with built-in arch support or ability to accommodate orthotic insoles can help redistribute pressure on your feet, relieving strain on the bunion area and the affected hammertoes.Look for shoes with cushioned insoles that provide ample shock absorption to minimize the impact on the front of your foot.
Adjustability: Adjustable closures like laces, Velcro straps, or buckles can help accommodate swelling or changes in foot shape throughout the day. These closures also allow for a customizable fit, which can reduce pressure on specific parts of the foot.
Rocker Sole Technology: Shoes with a rocker bottom sole can be particularly beneficial for people with bunions or hammertoes. The curved sole helps to shift the weight away from the forefoot, reducing pressure on the toes and bunion area. However, these shoes may take some time to get used to, so start with short wear periods before gradually increasing use.
Breathability: Foot conditions like bunions and hammertoes are often accompanied by swelling and inflammation, so choosing shoes made from breathable materials is essential to keep your feet cool and comfortable. Shoes with moisture-wicking linings or mesh uppers can help reduce sweat and prevent irritation.
THE BEST TYPES OF SHOES TO ALLEVIATE FOOT PAIN
Athletic Shoes: Unsurprisingly, athletic shoes typically offer a combination of wide toe boxes, cushioning, rocker sole technology, and arch support. Look for running or walking shoes that have removable insoles, which allow you to insert custom orthotics if needed.
Casual Flats: Flats with low heels, soft uppers, and wide toe boxes can be great for daily wear. Opt for versions with cushioned footbeds and flexible materials that provide both comfort and style.
Orthopedic Shoes: Specifically designed for foot conditions like bunions and hammertoes, orthopedic shoes usually feature extra depth, width, and removable insoles, allowing you to insert custom orthotics. They are typically not fashion-forward, so most reserve them for a time when nothing else will do.
Sandals with Adjustable Straps: When it comes to summer wear, sandals with adjustable straps are a good choice. Look for models with multiple points of adjustment (across the forefoot, midfoot, and ankle) good arch support and soft footbeds to accommodate your foot shape without adding pressure to the bunions or toes.
Dress Shoes: Finding dress shoes that work with bunions and hammertoes can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Look for low-heeled styles with round or square toe boxes, made from soft materials. Avoid stilettos and other high-heeled shoes.
PODIATRIST-APPROVED TIPS FOR TRYING ON SHOES
1. Shop later in the day. Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it's best to try on shoes in the afternoon or evening when your feet are at their largest.
2. Measure both feet. Sometimes one foot can be slightly larger than the other. Always fit your shoes to the larger foot.
3. Walk around. Walk around the store or at home (if buying online) to see how the shoes feel. There should be enough space to wiggle your toes, and the shoes should not press uncomfortably on your bunion or hammertoe.
THE RIGHT SHOES DO MORE THAN LOOK GREAT, THEY SUPPORT YOUR OVERALL PHYSICAL HEALTH
Choosing the right footwear when you have bunions or hammertoes can greatly impact your comfort and foot health. Prioritize shoes that offer ample space, cushioning, support, and adjustability to accommodate your unique foot structure. The right pair of shoes can prevent further complications and help alleviate the pain associated with these common foot conditions––and the perfect pair of shoes will do that and look great, too.

Don’t exacerbate foot-related issues with the wrong shoes. Dr. Terri, TFR's podiatrist, weighs in on where to start.

How to Choose the Right Footwear for Common Foot Deformities

<h6>With its vast and diverse terrain, luxury amenities, charming town, and cultural offerings, Park City seamlessly blends adventure and sophistication, making it one of the top ski destinations in America</h6>
Park City, while delightful any time of the year, truly comes alive under a freshly fallen blanket of snow, transforming the historic streets and rooftops into a scene out of a winter postcard.
This snow-covered wonderland, surround by the Wasatch Mountains, is one of the best ski towns in America, and for good reason - it’s charming in every single way. It is the only ski town where you can fly into a major international airport and be on the slopes within an hour, making it one of the most convenient ski destinations.
Utah is famous for its dry, fluffy snow, also known as “The Greatest Snow On Earth”, and over 300 days of sunshine. Enjoy sun-filled powder days on North America’s largest ski resort, Park City Mountain with hundreds of runs catering to all skill levels of skiers and snowboarders. For a more exclusive, luxury skiing experience, head over to Deer Valley Resort. Here you will experience a more refined atmosphere of perfectly groomed slopes, top-notch customer service, less crowds, and luxurious lodges.
While skiing and snowboarding are the main draw in the winter, Park City offers many other outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, ice skating and dog sledding. Head over to Midway, less than 30 minutes from Park City, to experience the Ice Castles - a popular destination for families with many Instagrammable moments.
Park City isn’t just a ski resort; it’s a thriving, historic mining town with charm and character. Main Street is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, high-end restaurants, and cozy cafes, creating a unique blend of rustic and upscale experiences. Here are our picks for an incredible time in our home town:
GIRLS WEEKEND
ROMANTIC GETAWAY
FAMILY VACATION
(NOT ALL) BUSINESS TRIP
 
About the author: Kate Benson
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0726/3951/2858/files/IMG_4538_480x480.jpg?v=1732026127" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
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<div style="text-align: center;" data-mce-fragment="1">Kate Benson on Main Street, Park City</div>
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Park City, TFR's home, seamlessly blends adventure and sophistication, making it one of the top ski destinations in America.

Park City Winter Guide

November 2023
Ciao from the hills of Tuscany! We're on a road trip from Rome to Florence, taking the scenic route through Tuscany, up the coast to Pisa and finally east to Florence where our factory is located.
Driving around Italy is easy and the best way to see the countryside at your own pace, allowing for stops in small towns like this one to get a glimpse (and a taste!) of local culture.
Speaking of taste, November is a great time to visit Tuscany as its white truffle season! We had the most wonderful pasta dish abundant with shaved 'tartufo bianco' at <a href="https://www.lalanternapulica.it/" target="_blank">Ristorante La Laterna</a> in Montelupo Fiorentino. What a treat.
Con amore e potere,
- Tori &amp; Anton
 
Photograph: Parco Torre di Lavello in Tuscania, Italy.

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