LEG CRAMPS DURING PREGNANCY.pptx

Abou leg cramps during pregnancy & its causes, symptoms, PT management

1. LEG CRAMPS DURING PREGNANCY PELVSIO WOMEN HEALTH PHYSIO

2. It is a sharp pain that occurs in the calf muscle or feet. Most common in pregnant women during the second and third trimesters. Occurs most often at night.

3. Causes: • Reduced level of calcium, potassium, • Increased level of phosphorus, • Weight gain during pregnancy, • Changes in circulation, • Pressure from a growing baby may also be compressed on the nerves and blood vessels that supply the legs.

4. Symptoms: • Severe leg pain or tenderness, • Swelling on foot & leg, • Fever • Temperature changes in legs and feet.  

5. Physiotherapy Management : • Walking, • Massage to leg, ankle, and foot, • Ankle-toe movements, • Calf muscle stretching, • Elevate the leg with pillow support, • Compression stockings.  

6. Do's: • Drink plenty of fluids. • Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, • Eat calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, almonds, etc., • Reduce intake of phosphorus-rich foods such as soft drinks, snacks, etc.  

7. Don'ts: • Avoid pointing toes when stretching your legs, • Avoid sitting for a long duration, • Avoid standing for a long duration, • Avoid crossing legs.