Many mothers will encounter the problem of leg cramp in the later stage of pregnancy. It is extremely uncomfortable when they have leg cramp. Generally speaking, they think it is caused by calcium deficiency, but some leg cramps can not be relieved after taking calcium tablets, drinking milk and other calcium supplement measures every day. Why? What are the causes of leg cramp?
6 measures to prevent leg cramp
No matter what causes leg cramp, it will produce discomfort or pain, which will affect the normal life and sleep of pregnant mother. Therefore, we must pay enough attention to prevent and eliminate the factors that can cause leg cramps.
1. Supplement calcium and maintain electrolyte balance
As we all know, the calcium needed for fetal bone growth depends on the pregnant mother. Therefore, the pregnant mother must guarantee the calcium intake of 1000-1200 mg per day, while maintaining the electrolyte balance. Pregnant mothers usually pay attention to eat calcium rich food, such as sesame, milk, ribs and so on. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, salmon, and dried beans are rich in calcium. Dates, figs, sweet corn, green vegetables and apples are rich in magnesium. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, potatoes and tomatoes. If the maternal calcium intake is insufficient, it is bound to cause low blood calcium. Therefore, calcium should also be selected as an auxiliary supplement. Generally, it is recommended that pregnant mothers start to supplement calcium at 4-5 months of pregnancy. At the same time of calcium supplement, we should also pay attention to the intake of vitamin D in the diet. Pregnant women should be exposed to the sun to promote the absorption and utilization of calcium. If calcium supplementation is not effective, magnesium and potassium supplementation should be attempted or the diagnosis should be made in a regular hospital
2. Proper exercise
Unless special circumstances such as bed rest are necessary, exercise should be appropriate during pregnancy. Jogging, swimming, yoga or other moderate forms of exercise may help prevent the cramp from aggravating. However, during pregnancy, we should avoid the increase of leg muscle burden caused by walking too much or standing too long, especially not suitable for heavy physical work. Pregnancy activities need to grasp the appropriate 'degree', when you feel tired, you need to stop to rest.
3. Foot elevation, hot compress and massage
When sleeping, keep the lower limbs warm, especially before going to bed, don't let the lower legs blow or cool directly. If you take the side lying position, you can reduce the symptoms. At rest, the pregnant mother can lie on her back and raise her feet slightly, and extend her toes upward, which can relax the muscles at the back of the calves and reduce the swelling. In addition, regular massage of cramped foot muscles can increase circulation, help to eliminate metabolites, and can be combined with hot compress, with good effect.
4. Clothing selection
After pregnancy, the pregnant mother should choose comfortable maternity clothes, match knee stretch socks, try to choose flat or air cushioned shoes, improve the blood circulation of legs, and reduce the tension of plantar muscles. Pregnant mothers can't simply pursue fashion and beauty, and don't pay attention to leg warmth.
5. Use medicine carefully
For vasodilator drugs, considering the particularity of medication during pregnancy, calcium antagonists are commonly used, and these drugs need to be used under the guidance of doctors, and should not be taken by yourself.
6. Frequent attack and timely medical treatment
If the pregnant mother has frequent leg cramps, she should go to the hospital for medical treatment, find out the cause and treat as soon as possible.