These circulatory changes put a pregnant woman at risk of blood clots in the lower legs, typically in the calves or inner thigh. To be safe, pregnancy massage experts avoid deep massage and strong pressure on the legs. Using strong pressure could dislodge a blood clot.
Where to avoid foot massage during pregnancy? You must absolutely avoid the reflexology zones immediately associated to the uterus and ovaries, which are located on the inner and outside of both ankles in the hollow areas right under the ankle bones, during pregnancy.
Some research suggests that foot massage and reflexology, which involves applying pressure to certain areas of the feet, hands and ears, might help decrease foot and ankle swelling during pregnancy. Also, swelling doesn't mean cutting back on how much you drink.
Avoid deep pressure, especially in certain areas
Your massage therapist should avoid putting deep pressure on your abdomen and legs. More specifically, they should also avoid the areas around your ankles and a few of your toes — namely your big, second and baby toes.
These circulatory changes put a pregnant woman at risk of blood clots in the lower legs, typically in the calves or inner thigh. To be safe, pregnancy massage experts avoid deep massage and strong pressure on the legs. Using strong pressure could dislodge a blood clot.
These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.
One of the pressure points that pregnant women must avoid is found in the ankles. The medial malleolus, also known as the Sanyinjioa or SP6, is a spot located three fingers' width above the ankle bone. If the medial malleolus is manipulated during pregnancy, it can lead to contractions, which is not safe for the fetus.
Some people wonder if you can get your nails done during pregnancy since polishes and polish removers contain many chemicals. Most experts agree that manicures and pedicures are safe during pregnancy. If you go to a professional salon with good safety standards, you can enjoy some pampering while you're expecting.
Early on in pregnancy, you can sleep on your stomach. Eventually, that position can become uncomfortable. But it's OK to sleep on your stomach if it is comfortable. Lying on your back is not recommended because of pressure on the inferior vena cava.
A massage therapist should never touch the genital area of the client. This is either sexual abuse or prostitution. In most parts of the U.S., massage of the breast is off limits. In the few states where it is legal, there must be written consent by the client.
You can say which parts of your body you don't want to be touched. A full-body massage usually includes your arms, legs, hands and feet, your neck and back, your stomach and buttocks. The area around the breasts is usually massaged but not the breasts themselves.
The answer is: Generally, yes. Massage therapy during pregnancy has been shown to provide many benefits, including a sense of wellness, improved relaxation, and better sleep. But certain techniques and trigger points in the body can cause contractions and premature labor, so seeking expertise is vital.
Pregnant women may find relief by snoozing with a pregnancy pillow or a pillow between their legs. A huggable pillow to wrap the arms and legs around can help release tension on the legs, knees, and lower back.
Avoid touching your face, mouth, and nose when handling these medications and wash your hands frequently. There are also several resources to check that can tell you whether you should avoid handling certain drugs while pregnant, including the following: Black box warnings: risk of embryo-fetal effects or birth defects.
Standing for prolonged periods while pregnant can not only be dangerous, but it can also be difficult or painful. It is recommended that pregnant women stand for no more than four or five hours while taking frequent breaks throughout the workday.
For less severe injuries, a person can try gentle massage at home. Some people find that massaging the bottom of the foot or heel provides relief. Others prefer to massage around or just above the ankle. A person should stop massaging the area if it causes pain or worsens symptoms.
A therapist is still able to perform a high quality massage even if their client is asleep. It's not rude, nor does it insult them in anyway. In fact, sleeping through a massage is a compliment to the therapist. Falling asleep tells them you are relaxed and comfortable and enjoying the time on their table.
But please do not feel you have to talk to fill the silence. We allow the client to lead the conversation, and will engage if we are talked to, however, many people like to just enjoy the massage without conversation and listen to our soothing music to help relaxation.