Leg cramps during pregnancy are very common and more than a little annoying. Mine even kept me up at night sometimes, not fun at all! Here are the things I did during my pregnancy to completely eliminate leg cramps, even in my third trimester!
1) Elevating those legs daily!
Because of the increased fluid retention that naturally occurs during pregnancy and good ol' gravity, it is common for fluid to pool in your legs (especially your calves). Elevating your legs and wearing compression socks can help.
2) Swimming or floating around in a pool.
Swimming is one the best exercises during pregnancy. It takes the weight off as you float around and is also a natural lymphatic massage. Swimming while pregnant works the lymphatic system which helps reduce overall swelling. Reducing swelling will help reduce leg cramps!
3) Massage.
Try our Manual Lymphatic Massage for Pregnancy to reduce swelling and relieve leg cramps. This massage focuses on the lymphatic system for the entire appointment. Many clients see instant relief after this massage in addition to feeling very relaxed.
4) Add the 'Peppermint Magnesium Leg Treatment for Cramps' to your next prenatal massage appointment.
This treatment consists of light rhythmic lymphatic massage with our special leg cream. This cream will instantly sooth those aches and pains with the cooling effect of peppermint and green tea extract. The magnesium chloride, an essential mineral, will penetrate deeper into the muscles to relieve the cramps long after the massage is over. We also currently off this cream in our store for purchase.
5) Stretch your calf muscles.
Stretching regularly can also help reduce leg cramps during pregnancy! Stand at arm's length from a wall, place your hands on the wall in front of you and move your right foot behind your left foot. Slowly bend your left leg forward, keeping your right knee straight and your right heel on the floor. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds. Repeat on both sides.
.
.
.