How to modify exercise for swolen ankles?

[LovingLife]

Since last weekend, my right ankle has been swelling each night (it seems to be aggravated when I drive from pushing on the accelerator and brake). I've continued with my morning workouts as usual, but I had to drive a few places this morning and it seems to be acting up earlier than before. It doesn't get nearly as swollen as I've seen some of my friends' get (can still see my ankle bones) -- but I was just thinking that perhaps I should adjust my workout schedule a bit to help this out? I have 5 1/2 weeks left till my due date and want to continue doing as much as I can. Right now I alternate cardio and weights days and do yoga at least once a week.

 

[Sheila]

Hello there,

What you are experiencing is probably very normal for your stage of pregnancy, but I would mention it to my caregiver the next time you see him or her. Try to put your feet up as much as possible. Also, do you have access to a pool? It does wonders for the swelling that occurs during pregnancy.

Keep us posted.

Sheila

Sheila S. Watkins, MLSci.
Founder and National Program Director
Healthy Moms(R) Fitness

 

[LovingLife]

Thanks Sheila -- My ankle swelling problem seems to be gone (at least for now ). I kept putting it up any chance I could get and tried to talk my dh and children into foot massages whenever possible (which felt WONDERFUL!)

I wish I had easy access to a pool. My early pregnancy plan was going to be to buy a month or two pass from the local pool my last few months if I didn't feel like doing my video workouts anymore, but I'm still enjoying those so much that I haven't even looked into it (and as much as I love the bouyancy in late pregnancy, it would take a lot more time out of my days to go to the pool every day). But I may just use my jacuzzi if I have swelling problems again.