Reduces legs during pregnancy: why and what to do

Future mothers leg problems are common, and this usually occurs in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Severity, swelling, pain, cramps are not uncommon. During this wonderful period, various processes and changes take place in the woman's body, which have a direct impact on the well-being of the expectant mother.

Legs during pregnancy

In general, the causes of leg problems during pregnancy are roughly classified into 2 categories:

1. Physiological. They are the norm. Physiological problems include severity, pain. The cause of painful sensations can be: firstly, the pressure of the fetal head on the pelvis. Pain often appears closer to the last trimester, when the child is old enough. Secondly, weight gain. With an impressive weight gain, most of the load goes to the spine and legs, resulting in pain in the lower back and legs.
2. Pathological. Such problems are often associated with all kinds of diseases. Among the reasons for these problems are the following:

• Lack of trace elements (calcium, magnesium);
• Puffiness;
• Varicose veins;
• Ingrown nail;
• Flat feet;
• Arthritis (joint disease);
• Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the veins in the legs).

Why does it reduce legs during pregnancy

One of the most common complaints of pregnant women is complaints of leg cramps. Let's try to figure out what this condition is connected with.

• Lack of nutrients. In the first trimester, the legs can cramp as a result of toxicosis, because useful substances and trace elements are released from the woman's body: potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamins. Their lack is a consequence of the appearance of cramps and muscle spasms. At a later date, seizures may indicate the appearance of such unpleasant diseases as varicose veins or inferior vena cava syndrome.
• Poor circulation. The growing uterus puts pressure on large vessels, which in turn affects the obstructed movement of blood and lymph. Muscles that do not receive the required amount of blood are prone to leg cramps. The simplest will come to the rescue physical exercises such as walking or circling your legs in the air.
• Uncomfortable posture while sleeping. The cause of night cramps is precisely the uncomfortable position of the body during sleep. For example, tightly wrapping the legs in a blanket will cause squeezing of blood vessels, the muscles will be in good shape, which will lead to spasm.
• Muscle overload. The calf muscles are often overloaded by exercise. Long walks, standing for many hours, uncomfortable shoes can be the result of muscle tone. Rest at night will help relieve stress. Lack of stress on the calf muscles also has similar consequences. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise will cause muscle flabbiness, which will overexert with any physical activity.

What to do if your legs are cramped

We have selected several methods that will help provide immediate relief for a seizure:

• Pull your foot towards you. Thus, you can relieve the spasm. If you do not reach your toes with your hand, you should press your toes close to the wall, this will achieve the same effect.
• Gently, but firmly, lower yourself on the leg, which was cramped, then slowly walk around the apartment. It is very important to straighten the flattened leg and step on it completely, because it will release the tension.
• A cramp can be removed with a simple massage: knead the calf muscle with the palm of your hand from the bottom of the heel up. Be sure to massage the caviar after relieving the spasm, otherwise your leg will hurt in the morning.