The human body changes in many ways to support pregnancy.
In our North Oakville Clinic we see many pregnant women as their body adapts. Our Physiotherapists and Massage Therapists assess and treat pregnancy related:
- Low back pain,
- Hip pain,
- Mid back pain,
- Rib pain
- Carpal tunnel symptoms
- Other aches and pains
- Exercise guidance
A common complaint with pregnancy is swollen and uncomfortable feet and legs. Someone who is postpartum may even notice that they have developed varicose veins during pregnancy.
The body undergoes normal changes that cause the blood to clot faster and the veins to dilate.
Veins are the structures that carry blood back to the heart. Veins are under low pressure and need the help of your muscles and valves to keep the blood moving and prevent back flow.
Because the veins widen during pregnancy, there is increased risk of improper venous return. This can cause the blood to pool and potentially damage the veins and valves. This may lead to varicose veins. This can also increase the risk of developing blood clots in the veins of the legs.
As pregnancy progresses, your blood volume also increases. The uterus grows to accommodate your developing baby. Both of these changes also increase the pressure on the veins. We can develop more swelling and varicosities in one leg versus the other depending on where the baby “sits” most of the time.
How do we know we are having problems with our veins during pregnancy?
- Feelings of heaviness in the legs
- The legs may feel more tired
- The legs may ache
- The feet and legs may swell and indent with socks
- Varicose veins may increase in the 4th month (these can diminish after birth)
How can compression socks help during pregnancy?
Medical compression provides graduated levels of compression the decrease from the bottom up. They help support the veins and tissues and promote blood circulation (venous return). This will help decrease tired, achey legs and well as the swelling in the legs.
Wearing compression can also help prevent the development of varicose veins. If you already have varicose veins, compression can help it from worsening.
It is recommended to wear compression fro the entire pregnancy for the during of waking hours. It is also recommended that you wear compression for at least six weeks after the baby is born.
Compression socks and stockings are covered under most private insurance. Our North Oakville Physio and Foot clinic is happy to help guide you through the process and help make your pregnancy journey more comfortable.
Contact us to book an appointment.