Do’s & Don’t’s for Common Pregnancy Related Problems

PELVIC/ BACK PAIN:

*Sit on both “cheeks”- avoid crossing legs

*Ensure your standing equally on both feet

*When shopping, try carry evenly in both hands

*If you have young children, try not to carry them on one hip- if you must, alternate hips

* Be as active as possible within pain limits- avoid activities that make pain worse

*Sit to get dressed and undressed

*Keep your knees together getting in/out car

* To turn in bed, squeeze bum, draw in tummy and keep knees together as your roll

* Going upstairs, try leading with less painful leg

* Going downstairs, lead with more painful leg

* Avoid prolonged sitting or standing

LEG CRAMPS:

*Avoid very high heels, crossing legs

*Exercise feet before going to bed: Circle the feet briskly in each direction for a minute. 

SWOLLEN ANKLES:

*Vigorously exercise your feet up and down for at least 30 seconds at a time often during day.

*Avoid standing long periods

*Consider support tights

NUMB, TINGLING, PAINFUL HANDS/FINGERS:

*Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

*Night splints can be useful

*Try to avoid excessive squeezing, gripping

*Elevate the hand and forearms when possible

*Gently bend and circle wrists often