During the duration of most pregnancies the body produces approximately 50% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of the developing baby and new mommy. Because of this increase in fluids, swelling is a normal part of the pregnancy experience, especially in the hands, face, legs, ankles and feet, a condition known as edema.
A new study published by researchers in Turkey found that foot massage significantly reduces the swelling and pain accompanied by edema.
The study divided 80 pregnant women into two groups. The study group received a 20-minute foot massage daily for five days. The control group did not.
The women in the study group had a significantly smaller lower leg circumference – hardly any swelling and a lower level of discomfort in the legs and feet.
You don’t have to see a massage therapist every day to work out the swelling, just grab your Scandle and put the new daddy to work
Pregnancy massage by fathers was found to reduce pain in their pregnant partners, alleviate prenatal depression in both parents and improve their relationships, according to recent research.
Tags: edema, foot massage, pregnancy pain, prenatal care
