Swelling in the ankles in pregnancy

6 Techniques for Reducing Swelling in your Ankles during Pregnancy.

Unfortunately due to the heat in the Summer the heat can cause increased swelling in pregnancy especially around the ankles. This is usually more common in the later stages of pregnancy but is also common throughout. I have listed some techniques that can help alleviate some of this but you should always tell a your doctor or consultant as there may be other health implications.

1. You must raise your feet above hip level
2. Rotate your ankle clock wise and anti clock wise
3. Flex up and down your ankles
4. Lie on the floor either on a mat or blanket and rest your feet on an exercise ball and move your feet and ankles (do not do this if feeling dizzy or unwell)
5. Massage your feet to pump the fluid back towards your heart (either getting your partner to help or treat yourself to a massage or reflexology)
6. Drink lots of water to keep flushing out the fluid.

Pregnancy Reflexology.

Is Reflexology a good idea in pregnancy?

When I started to train as a reflexologist in 2001 I knew very little on the subject of pregnancy reflexology but the more I studied and the more I practised it became clear to me that reflexology is so suited to pregnancy (after the first trimester). There are just so many reasons why I came to this conclusion number 1. it is a non invasive treatment 2. non drug dependant 3. the benefits to the baby are huge while also leaving the mother feeling relaxed yet completely re-energized.

The reason I went for pregnancy reflexology when I was expecting was the boundless energy I experienced after a session it was almost as if I had plugged myself in and recharged my battery in the 1 hour session!

As a Reflexologist of over 10 years experience I know everybody's experience of pregnancy reflexology is different and the reason for coming to me are varied but this is a short list of the main reasons expectant mothers choose to come to me to have pregnancy reflexology.

1. Helps to relieve digestive problems such as bloating and constipation (a lot more common than you think)
2. There a so many stresses that go on within family and work life that expectant mothers are afraid it will effect their unborn baby, reflexology can restore calm to the body.
3. Swelling especially to the ankles and feet.
4. Time out for the mother to unwind and escape for an hour (especially if it is not her first pregnancy!)
5. Help alleviate headaches and other minor complaints with out the need for drugs.
6. Hospitals and doctors generally refer expectant mothers who have reached or are past their due date and feel reflexology could stimulate labour.
7. A lot of the time a friend will have had a good experience with pregnancy reflexology and they will want to try it for themselves.

So to conclude my question of whether reflexology is a good idea in pregnancy I would have to say yes from my experience and the fact that it is growing in popularity all the time.
If you would like to learn more on the subject please have a look at my website www.lodgeroadtherapy.ie or https://www.facebook.com/LodgeRoadTherapyRoom?ref=hl