Hello Baby Banda. I am a mother to be and my legs are swelling on and off and paining when I walk or stand. What can I use to relax my legs? My back also aches. I am six months pregnant now.
Esther Kimani Staff
It is quite common to have swollen legs during pregnancy. The pregnancy hormones coupled with the extra weight you are carrying will usually cause your body to retain water leading to the swollen legs and feet. Here are a few tips on how to cope with this.
- Elevate your legs by placing your feet up on a stack of pillows. This is especially effective at night. Always keep your head propped up above your heart while doing this.
- Light exercise will help with circulation and releasing built up toxins.
- Take lots of water. Water helps your body to eliminate waste and balance out the sodium levels.
- Soak feet in warm salty water, then massage with some oil. You can also soak your feet in cold water to relieve the overheated sensation that comes with swelling.
- Avoid crossing your legs. It cuts off the circulation of blood from your thighs into your feet.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Your feet are carrying you and a baby so treat them nicely.
- Avoid anything salty. Too much sodium forces your body to retain water in your hands, feet, and belly.
A: On Backache:
Pregnancy hormones oestrogen and relaxin, which flood your system at various points, soften and relax the ligaments and joints, meaning there is too much flexibility and your back can become unstable. The weight of your bump as it grows also can cause your center of gravity to shift causing great strain on your spine and finally, wearing the wrong shoes can also throw your body out of alignment, meaning you stand awkwardly to compensate.
Here are some helpful tips:
1. Ensure that your wear low flat comfortable shoes
2. Keep the correct posture when sitting and standing ensuring that your spine remains straight
3. Ensure adequate intake of calcium rich foods e.g. milk and also Iron which you get from animal proteins like red meats, eggs etc.
