Foot pain during pregnancy – Foot pain and swollen feet are very common during pregnancy, especially if you are on your feet for a long time. Swollen feet during pregnancy or Edema is a normal reaction to the inflammation caused by pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, your blood volume and bodily fluids increase by 50%. This excess fluid ensures baby has what she needs when she needs it. But it needs to be stored somewhere, hence your swollen feet. Fortunately, chances are these ailments will disappear after you deliver. In the meantime.
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There are some effective remedies to relieve foot pain during pregnancy you can do to alleviate the discomfort.
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Get plenty of protein, adequate salt and other essential nutrients.
Pregnant women can be carrying an additional 20 lbs of fluid in the third trimester. Swelling is a common and natural result of increased fluid in the body. Essential nutrients and minerals directly affect how well your body is able to process all that extra fluid, also known as electrolyte balance. Avoid processed and packaged foods, which contain high amounts of regular table salt, and opt for whole foods and unprocessed sea salt that contains all the good-for-you trace minerals and nutrients that will help maintain optimal electrolyte balance and reduce or prevent swelling.
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Elevate your feet as often as you can.
Try to raise your legs 6 to 12 inches above your heart for 15 to 20 minutes to help the blood flow back to your heart and lungs. Use cushions to prop your feet slightly above the level of your heart to ensure that the blood and fluid returns to your heart, relieving the swelling in the lower extremities.
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Don’t sit or stand for a long period of time.
This may be tricky if you work in an office but changing positions often can really help relieve edema in pregnancy. You can try a standing desk or sitting for a while and getting away from the desk frequently to get the circulation flowing.
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Decrease your caffeine intake.
Caffeine is a diuretic, which means it increases urination, leading to dehydration and fluid retention. Replace your caffeine with a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea, both of which contain many beneficial trace minerals including potassium.
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Exercise for 30 minutes a day.
Exercise, like gentle yoga, keeps your blood and fluids circulating throughout your body so that their tendency to settle in your feet is less. Try sitting, with one leg raised. Rotate your ankle 10 times to the right, then to the left. Switch legs. Repeat 10 times.
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Lie on your left side.
Whether sleeping or resting, lying on your left side can help increase circulation in your body, which will help reduce swelling in your feet.
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