Pregnancy is a joyful time, but it can also create some physical discomforts, one of which is swelling in your hands and feet. The scientific name for this is oedema, and it affects many pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester. It can also complicate everyday activities.
A good pregnancy massage is a non-invasive solution that works well with swelling. It stimulates your lymphatic system and improves circulation to reduce puffiness and any associated discomfort.
In this post, we’ll look at the common causes of swelling during pregnancy, discuss how massage can help, and tell you how to massage swollen hands and feet during pregnancy.
While swelling is normal during pregnancy, it’s still uncomfortable and frustrating. Particularly when your favourite rings no longer fit, or you feel like you need jumbo-sized shoes…
This is where understanding the underlying causes can help you manage the condition more effectively and also recognise when it may be necessary to seek further assistance.
This is the number one reason for swollen hands and feet during pregnancy.
As your baby develops, your uterus expands. As it does, it exerts pressure on your veins, particularly the inferior vena cava, which is the large vein on the right side of your body. This particular vein is responsible for returning blood from your lower limbs to your heart.
When compressed (by your expanding uterus) it can restrict blood flow which then leads to fluid build-up in your feet, ankles, and even your hands.
Much as we hate it, a certain amount of weight gain during pregnancy is both expected and necessary for your health and your baby’s.
However, this added weight increases pressure on your circulatory system, making it harder to effectively move blood and fluid around. As a result, your legs and feet often swell up.
Sometimes the swelling is a symptom of a more serious condition called pre-eclampsia.
Preeclampsia generally happens after the 20 week mark. Symptoms to watch out for include:
You shouldn’t think of massage during pregnancy as a luxury because it can actually play a very important role in maintaining your overall health and wellbeing. It is particularly beneficial for dealing with those swollen hands and feet. Here’s how:
Oedemas happen when your body retains excess fluid. Massage stimulates your lymphatic system so it works harder to keep your tissues drained. When done regularly, it can help prevent ongoing fluid retention.
Swelling can be uncomfortable and painful, especially in your hands and feet. Massage therapy works to relieve pressure on painful joints and relax tense muscles. It also encourages the release of endorphins (natural painkillers) which also help you feel more comfortable and at ease.
There’s nothing like a good professional massage done by a trained prenatal masseuse to make you feel great. But – sometimes you just need to sit down in comfort somewhere, kick off your shoes, and give your swollen feet a good foot massage!
So, we’re going to cover off how to massage how to massage your swollen hands and feet during pregnancy
Your feet bear the brunt of your expanding weight, particularly if you spend a lot of time on them. Therefore, they are one of the main sources of discomfort for many pregnant women. Here’s how to give yourself a soothing foot massage to reduce swelling and ease the soreness:
Start with light strokes – gently stroke the top of your foot, working your way up from your toes towards your ankle. This helps stimulate circulation and shifts fluid away from the foot.
Focus on your ankles because this is a common area for swelling. Use circular strokes to gently massage around your ankles to help reduce the swelling.
Massage the soles – using your thumbs, apply gentle pressure to your sole, working from the heel towards the toes. Don’t apply too much pressure, especially if your feet are tender.
Finish with the calves – lightly stroke upwards from your ankle to the calf. This encourages lymphatic drainage and can help further reduce swelling.
Swollen hands can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom of pregnancy that stops you from wearing rings! Here are some tips for a soothing self-hand massage:
Start with your fingers – gently massage each finger, working from the base towards the tip. This helps stimulate blood flow and reduce swelling.
Move to the palms – using your thumb, massage your palm in circular motions. Apply gentle but firm pressure to ease stiffness and promote circulation.
Massage your wrist – swelling often accumulates around the wrist, so gently massage this area in circular motions. Gradually work your way up towards your forearm to encourage fluid drainage.
Finish with upward strokes towards the elbow – light strokes up your arm can help drain excess fluid and reduce swelling in your hands.
Remember to use gentle pressure and avoid any areas that feel particularly tender.
Is massage a great solution for swollen hands and feet during pregnancy? Absolutely! It not only helps reduce swelling by stimulating your lymphatic system and improving circulation but also eases discomfort and pain, encourages relaxation, and can also improve your sleep.
At Weald Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing you with the care and support you need throughout your pregnancy journey.
If you have questions about pregnancy massage, want to learn more about how to massage swollen hands and feet during pregnancy, or schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out.
contact@wealdchiropractic.co.uk
Unit 29 Graylands Estate, Langhurst Wood Road, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 4QD
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