Pregnancy Massage: Ease the Aches and Pains
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The reasons of pregnancy swelling
As the pregnancy progresses some soon-to-be mom’s notice that their legs and feet start to swell. There are a few reasons of pregnancy swelling, the first being a change in blood chemistry, and the other being pressure on the lymphatic vessels in the abdomen as the uterus continues to grow, blocking the lymphatic flow. For some women, it can be just a little swelling and for other women, it can be quite significant, making shoes and socks impossible to slip on.
Things to Beware of
In most cases, the swelling is not dangerous and will subside within a day of delivery. It is important to note if there are abnormalities that appear with the swelling such as headaches, changes in vision, shooting pains, swelling on one side of the body, severe redness and strange bruising in the area. Should any of these symptoms occur, it is important to contact a physician as soon as possible. As long as the swelling is the same on both sides and is otherwise asymptomatic, then there shouldn’t be anything to worry about other than the inability to wear shoes.
How can this swelling be avoided?
There are a few things that can be done, one avoiding the heat. Extreme heat can cause an increase in swelling and fluid pooling. In someone with a “block” in lymphatic flow, the swelling can become quite pronounced. Try to stay in a cool environment as much as possible.
Watch the pesky cravings. Pregnancy is sometimes accompanied by certain cravings that include very salty food. Having a diet that is high in salt will cause more fluid pooling and more swelling as salt attracts water and causes water retention.
How can pregnant swelling be treated?
One way to treat swelling in the legs, and/or prevent it, is to participate in aqua form classes. There are some classes that are geared towards treating swelling and lymphedema, but during pregnancy, any type of class will help.
Stay active, but watch the intensities. Exercise boosts the lymphatic system from 7-14 beats per minute all the way up to 30. Extreme exercise should be avoided because it could cause some blood pooling, and it is best to exercise at a moderate rate during pregnancy.
Lastly, there is lymphatic drainage massage. While sports massage and prenatal massage is excellent for treating orthopedic injuries and imbalances, lymphatic drainage massage will specifically treat the flow of fluids via the lymphatic vessels. During a Prenatal lymphatic drainage massage, the massage therapist will position you so that you are partially seated rather than lying flat on your back. Prenatal lymphatic drainage massage is perfectly safe, the only adjustments to be made are avoiding deep abdominal techniques and having the soon-to-be mom at an incline.
Following these guidelines can help make pregnancy a lot more comfortable and bearable. Contact us today for a pregnancy massage, let us help you diminish the swelling.
