How to Give a Foot Massage During Pregnancy

The feet are under a lot of strain and pressure during pregnancy, which can result in mild to severe aches, pain, and tension. A foot massage performed on a regular basis can help bring relief, whether given by you or a partner. Pregnancy is the perfect time for a foot massage, so get comfortable and get out the massage oil. Let your partner pamper you during this time or pamper yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Massage oil

Instructions

1. Rub a small amount of massage oil in your hands before giving the foot massage. This warms the oil, which leads to warmer feet, deeper relaxation, and better circulation. Many pregnant women suffer from poor circulation in the feet, and warmed oil can help stimulate blood flow.

2. Stroke the top of the foot with firm slow motions, using your thumbs to apply pressure on the underside of the foot. Begin at the toes and move slowly down to the ankle, then repeat moving the opposite direction. Repeat three times on the top and bottom of the foot.

3. Cup the heel with one hand. Rotate the ankle at least three times in each direction using the other hand. This motion will loosen stiff joints and relaxes tired feet that often accompany pregnancy.

4. Firmly pull each toe, beginning with the big toe, by sliding the fingers from the base of the toe to the very tip. Roll and squeeze the toe between the index finger and thumb, and then repeat with each individual toe. This motion relaxes tired feet and stimulates blood flow to the very tips of the toes.

5. Clench your hand into a fist and use the knuckles to slide along the arch of the foot, from the ball to the heel and back. Repeat at least five times on each foot. During pregnancy, the arch of the foot may ache and become tense. This motion helps to relieve any associated discomfort.

6. Finish the foot massage by repeating the stroking motion described in Step 2.

Tips & Warnings

• Almond oil can be substituted if massage oil is not available.

• There has been speculation that a foot massage during pregnancy can induce labor. However, there is no scientific evidence to back this claim. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor first to make sure a foot massage is safe for you.