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Tikhonova N.V., Zhukovskaya T.V. Features of designing the inner shape of everyday health-preserving footwear for pregnant women. Part II. Journal of Clothing Science. 2025; 10(2). Available at: https://kostumologiya.ru/PDF/06TLKL225.pdf (in Russian).

Features of designing the inner shape of everyday health-preserving footwear for pregnant women. Part II

Tikhonova Natalya Vasilievna
Kazan National Research Technological University, Kazan, Russia
E-mail: nata.tikhonova.81@mail.ru
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2241-869X
RSCI: https://elibrary.ru/author_profile.asp?id=750903
SCOPUS: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.url?authorId=57193534168

Zhukovskaya Tatiana Vladimirovna
Kazan National Research Technological University, Kazan, Russia
E-mail: zhukovskayatv@gmail.com
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4006-6691
RSCI: https://elibrary.ru/author_profile.asp?id=792962
SCOPUS: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.url?authorId=57219987044

Abstract. The woman’s foot undergoes irreversible changes during her first pregnancy. Due to increased ligament elasticity, both longitudinal and transverse dimensions of the foot increase, while the arch flattens. This primarily requires additional support for the arch and improved sole cushioning because gait alterations, shifting center of gravity, and weight gain can adversely affect not only the feet but also intervertebral discs and the spine as a whole. Furthermore, impaired normal shock absorption function of the plantar fascia due to its heightened elasticity may lead to hyperpronation, which in turn causes pain and increases the risk of injury.

Research has confirmed that significant biomechanical changes occur in the foot during pregnancy, accompanied by redistribution of pressure, reduced shock absorption capacity, and increased activity of lower limb stabilizing muscles. Analysis of experimental data comparing parameters with barefoot conditions versus wearing everyday shoes revealed that even when subjective comfort is reported, existing shoe models do not provide adequate levels of support and stabilization.

Based on these findings, design principles have been formulated for creating adaptive footwear aimed at compensating for changes occurring in women’s bodies during pregnancy. The proposed solutions regarding the internal structure of the shoes take into account specific features of foot anatomy, redistribute load, provide arch support, and adapt to changing foot volume.

Development and implementation of such footwear in daily practice contribute not only to improving the quality of life for pregnant women but also prevent long-term musculoskeletal disorders.

Keywords: women’s everyday health-preserving footwear; pregnancy; inner shape of footwear; plantar surface of the foot

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