How To Manage Leg Cramps During Pregnancy

Leg cramps, along with swelling and varicose veins, are a common but occasionally painful aspect of pregnancy. However, these symptoms can be a little more bearable if you know how to deal with them when they occur and how to avoid them altogether. Keep reading as we discuss the causes behind leg cramps during pregnancy, and effective methods to deal with it.

Why Leg Cramps During Pregnancy Are Common?

A cramp is a sudden, severe ache that typically affects your feet or calf muscles. They are more frequent during the later stages of your pregnancy and typically occur at night. They can be extremely uncomfortable, and knowing what to do might be challenging. There are numerous hypothesised causes of cramps during pregnancy, including increased weight, changes in metabolism, vitamin deficiencies, and excessive or insufficient activity.

How To Prevent Leg Cramps During Pregnancy

You may find that some workouts can help in avoiding leg pain in pregnancy. Calf raises and walking on the spot are two workouts that are beneficial for improving blood flow in the legs and may help prevent cramping. Other gentle exercises include swimming and strolling. In fact, it’s a good idea to engage in regular, moderate exercise to avoid leg cramps during pregnancy because it will assist your body in adjusting to the physical changes that occur during this time.

You can also attempt particular foot and leg workouts like:

• 30 repetitions of actively bending and stretching your foot up and down while rotating it 8 times in one direction and 8 times in the opposite direction.
• Before going to bed, stretch your leg muscles to help avoid nighttime cramps.

How To Get Rid Of Leg Pain In Pregnancy

Most of the time, stretching your muscles by firmly bringing your toes up toward your ankle can assist in relieving a leg cramp. Alternatively, you can walk for some time or elevate your legs while supporting them with pillows.

Consult Your Doctor

You should consult your doctor when:

• Leg cramps are becoming severe and do not let you sleep because they hurt so badly, you are worried about them.
• If you’re unsure of the best course of action to take when experiencing cramps.

Leg cramps during pregnancy are common, and may occur due to change in hormones or excess weight gain. If your symptoms persist even after trying the pain management methods discussed above, contact your healthcare provider immediately for further assistance. 

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