As a woman approaching menopause, you might expect symptoms like mood changes, hot flushes, and sleep disturbances. However, what you may not realise is that menopause can also bring about foot problems. From dry skin to foot pain, a variety of foot-related issues can emerge during this stage of life. So, how exactly does menopause affect your feet, and what can be done to manage these changes?
What Happens to a Woman’s Body During Menopause?
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles as hormone levels, particularly oestrogen, begin to decline. Oestrogen plays a crucial role in the production of collagen, a protein that maintains the health of skin, muscles, tendons, and bones. As oestrogen levels drop, collagen production decreases, leading to a range of changes in the body, including reduced bone density, muscle loss, and decreased elasticity of the skin and tissues.
These changes can significantly impact foot health, causing issues that might not have been present before menopause. Women going through menopause may notice changes in the structure, function, and appearance of their feet, often leading to discomfort and pain.
How Do Your Feet Change During and After Menopause?
Before menopause, many women experience a gradual decline in oestrogen levels, which can lead to muscle and joint pain, including foot pain. Swollen feet and the need for larger shoes are also common complaints. Increased sweating may cause foot odor, and some women may experience a burning sensation in their feet.
As menopause progresses, skin dryness and decreased elasticity become more prominent, affecting the feet. The loss of elasticity in arteries and veins can lead to swollen feet due to poor circulation. These changes don’t typically occur before menopause but can persist long after, making it essential to care for your feet throughout this time.
Common Foot Problems During Menopause
Women going through menopause are more likely to develop several foot issues, including:
- Hard skin and corns: Increased pressure on the feet due to weight gain or redistribution of cushioning under the feet can lead to corns and calluses.
- Dry skin: As oestrogen levels fall, so does the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dry, cracked skin on the feet.
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain: Reduced collagen affects the strength and flexibility of tissues, increasing the risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and even fractures.
- Burning feet: Changes in temperature regulation can lead to a burning sensation in the feet.
What Does the Science Say?
While menopause is a natural part of aging, the specific impact it has on foot health is not as widely researched as other symptoms like hot flushes or mood changes. However, it’s clear that decreased collagen, reduced circulation, and changes in foot structure are significant concerns for many women during this time. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and even fractures due to osteoporosis can become more prevalent as a result of these changes.
Foot Problems to Watch For During Menopause
Women approaching menopause should be aware of the potential foot issues they may face, including:
- Dry and hard skin
- Foot pain or joint discomfort
- Neuromas or bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs in joints)
- Delayed wound healing due to loss of skin elasticity
- Muscle imbalances that lead to foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or claw toes
- Increased risk of fractures due to osteoporosis
How to Care for Your Feet During Menopause
Taking care of your feet during menopause is crucial to prevent and manage these potential issues. Here are some tips to support foot health:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin moisturized.
- Moisturize daily: Apply foot cream to prevent dry and cracked skin.
- Wear supportive shoes: Opt for comfortable footwear with good cushioning and arch support.
- Take supplements: Calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone health.
- Visit a podiatrist regularly: Routine podiatry appointments can help identify and treat foot problems early.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you start to notice any of the symptoms mentioned, or if you experience changes in your feet, it’s important to seek advice from a podiatrist. Regular six-monthly check-ups can help catch any issues early and provide tailored treatments to manage menopause-related foot problems.
How Randell’s Footcare Can Help
At Randell’s Footcare, our experienced podiatrists are skilled in treating a range of menopause-related foot issues. Whether it’s providing advice on the right footwear, treating dry skin, or helping to manage foot pain, we’re here to support you through this phase of life. Routine podiatry appointments can help keep your feet in the best condition and catch any issues before they worsen.
Get in Touch
If you’re experiencing foot problems related to menopause, or simply want to ensure your feet stay healthy, contact Randell’s Footcare today. Our friendly team is here to help you book an appointment with one of our HCPC-qualified podiatrists, who specialise in menopause-related foot care.
Call us on 01603 737 188 or contact us to take the next step toward healthier, happier feet.
