Cramping legs during pregnancy: why and what to do

Future mothers leg problems are common, usually occurring in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Heaviness, swelling, pain, spasms - this is not a rare phenomenon. During this wonderful period, various processes and changes occur in a woman’s body that have a direct impact on the well-being of the expectant mother.

Feet during pregnancy

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

1. Physiological. They are the norm. Physiological problems include such problems as heaviness and pain. The cause of pain may be: firstly, the pressure of the fetal head on the pelvis. The pain often appears towards the last trimester, when the baby 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 lumbar region and legs.
2. Pathological. Such problems are often associated with various diseases. Among the causes of these problems are the following:

• Lack of microelements (calcium, magnesium);
• Swelling;
• Varicose veins;
• Ingrown toenail;
• Flat feet;
• Arthritis (joint disease);
• Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the veins in the legs).

Why do legs cramp during pregnancy?

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

• Lack of nutrients. In the first trimester, the legs may cramp as a result of toxicosis, because useful substances and microelements leave the woman’s body: potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamins. Their deficiency is a consequence of the appearance of cramps and muscle spasms. At later stages, convulsions may indicate the appearance of such unpleasant diseases as  varicose veins or inferior vena cava syndrome.
• Poor blood circulation. The growing uterus puts pressure on large vessels, which in turn affects the difficult movement of blood and lymph.   Muscles that do not receive the required amount of blood are subject to cramps in the legs. The simplest will come to the rescue physical exercise, such as walking or moving your legs in circles in the air.
• Uncomfortable posture during sleep. The cause of night cramps is precisely the uncomfortable position of the body during sleep. For example, tightly wrapping your legs in a blanket will cause pressure on the blood vessels, the muscles will be in good shape, which will lead to a spasm.
• Muscle overload.  The calf muscles are often overloaded during exercise. Long walks, standing for many hours, and uncomfortable shoes can be a consequence of muscle tone. Getting some rest at night can help relieve tension.  Lack of stress on the calf muscles also has similar consequences. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise will cause sagging muscles, which will experience overstrain during any physical activity.

What to do if your legs are cramped

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

• Pull your foot towards you. This way you can relieve the spasm. If you cannot 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 onto your cramped leg, then slowly walk around the apartment. It is very important to straighten your cramped leg and step on it completely, because... this will relieve tension.
• The cramp can be relieved with a simple massage: knead the calf muscle with your palm from the bottom of the heel up. Be sure to massage your calf after relieving the spasm, otherwise your leg will hurt in the morning.