Congratulations on you’re pregnancy! While pregnancy comes with plenty of joy, it can also take its toll on your body. Nothing beats that feeling of a new life and feeling flutters for the first time, but those experiences are usually coupled with sore muscles and back, and let’s not forget aching feet! Everyone experiences pregnancy differently, but here are some simple ways you can take care of your legs and feet, so you can enjoy the next nine months.
1. Keep Moving
Avoid standing and sitting for prolonged periods. Remember to keep moving to avoid foot pain and leg cramps by staying active and trying simple exercises to keep your body and feet healthy. Almost 30% of women develop varicose veins during their first pregnancy and 55% of women who have had two or more full-term pregnancies develop varicose veins as well. Varicose veins and spider veins show up during pregnancy due to poor blood circulation and result in aching feet, heels and joints, swelling in your legs and feet, and other related issues. Keep moving to stay healthy and avoid those obnoxious veins!
2. Keep Elevated
Keeping your feet slightly elevated when sleeping or resting helps to enhance blood circulation and reduce edema, one of the most common pregnancy side effects of swollen feet. When there is a buildup of fluid in the feet, it can cause the extremities to swell, which results in stretching of the skin and can ultimately lead to inflammation. Taking ample time to rest and put your feet up can help quell edema.
3. Stay Cool
Try to avoid extended exposure to extreme temperatures, especially hotter temperatures as excessive heat may cause your veins to dilate and induce swelling. Pregnant women are also at a high risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, otherwise known as DVT. The main reason for this is the increased blood volume at full term and the hormonal changes that increase blood coagulability, thus constricting blood flow. The expanding uterus also puts added pressure on blood vessels, restricting blood flow from the legs and pelvis back to the heart. Stay cool and keep both you and baby healthy!
4. Consider Compression Therapy
Clinical studies conducted in the past have shown that graduated compression stockings are beneficial to pregnant women as it is known to be the most effective method of preventing swelling in the feet. It also alleviates leg pain and heaviness by providing compression to enhance intravenous blood flow and prevents blood from pooling in the veins and reduces the risk of an elevated heart rate in both mother and child. Additionally, the enhanced blood flow provided by the compression stockings also help reduce the risk of varicose veins, phlebitis, and deep vein thrombosis. If you’re struggling with aching legs and feet, check with your doctor about the benefits of compression socks and if they are right for you!
Author Bio:
Kunal is a young and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Defence a brand that’s recognised across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Kunal at kunal@copperdefence.com or visit www.copperclothing.com for copper-infused clothing, pet accessories and more.
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