How to reduce feet swelling and possible joint or leg pain in pregnancy?
• Elevate the legs above the heart regularly • Avoid prolong sitting with feet hang on the floor (you can put feet up or use a footrest when you are sitting) • Lying down, especially on the left side since the vena cava is on the right side of your body • Watch your sodium intake • Wear leg support stockings • Fluid pills are not recommended instead you can include foods with dieuretic effect in your diet such as onion, garlic, celery, etc. • Increase your physical activities when applicable; brisk walking is great for pregnant women • Compress the swollen ankles and feet with cold water • Stay cool so the foot and ankle swelling don’t get worse • Drink lots of water, especially in very hot weather • Avoid tight-fitting clothes • Wear a good large shoe with a large sole to give the feet plenty of room during pregnancy, especially if your feet swell and any discomfort occurs because of it • Treat any underlying medical conditions If your feet swelling are so severe and even cause joint
