The Exercise
Have your client bend and stretch one foot up and down about 30 times. Then have her rotate the foot in a circle 8 times in one direction and 8 times in the other direction. Repeat with the other foot. This is a very simple and easy exercise that you can do sitting or standing. It improves blood circulation and reduces swelling in the feet. It also prevents cramps in the calf muscles.

Purpose
This simple exercise is important because water retention and swollen feet can make pregnancy even more uncomfortable. During pregnancy, the pressure from the growing uterus and the extra fluid accumulated in the body due to the hormonal changes can result in swelling in the ankles and feet. This swelling will often increase as the due date nears. This simple exercise can help to reduce discomfort caused by swelling in the feet and ankles.


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