In this article we will tell you all you need to know to get through Menopause with your feet intact.
Are you menopausal, peri-menopausal or post-menopausal and concerned about the changes that are happening?
As with many things our body goes through throughout our lives; our feet and lower limbs are affected by the various changes that occur throughout the Menopause journey. The hormones Estrogen and progesterone are depleted which, which leads to a cascade of changes that may be unpleasant and can cause problems.
- Joint and muscle pain – Activities like running can cause increased inflammation throughout menopause. How we can help: By optimising the mechanics of your lower limb and feet we can decrease the force going through the joint and therefore decrease the inflammation and reduce pain. This can also reduce the likelihood of tendon problems as outlined below.
Dry Skin – As Estrogen levels drop during menopause the skin produces less oils and it becomes easier to dry out. How we can help: The use of a barrier cream (Creams with the ingredient Dimethicone) in them mimics the skins natural oils and will both hydrate the skin and prevent moisture loss- Brittle Nails – Dehydration of the nail matrix and decreased collagen production leads to brittle nails, this is caused again by the depletion of Estrogen. How we can help: Use of a silk protein lacquer can help with this- ask our friendly staff
- Tendon problems – Tendons are the way that our muscles exert their actions. With the hormonal changes during menopause the tendons in our bodies have a decreased ability to take load, and decreased ability to heal. How we can help: Our Podiatrists are knowledgeable in tendon rehabilitation and can develop a personalised programme for you to repair and manage damaged tendons through exercises and mechanical correction.
