Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Achy Legs

I just finished with two 8 hour days and am gearing up to do two 12 hour days. My biggest question: What can I do to make my feet and legs stop aching?

I've "obtained" a pair of compression stockings aka TEDS and wear them religiously at work. When I first started wearing them, I could really notice a difference, but now my legs are aching again - from my toes up to my thighs. I've been awakened in the middle of the night with muscle cramps in my legs.

I'm trying to be smarter at work by doing things like pulling a chair into the patient's room so I can sit and chart during labors. And, I never wear the same shoes two days in a row....that seems to kill me, so I alternate. Any other tips would be appreciated.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Make Mark massage your feet and legs every night :)

Ashley Benz said...

I agree with Livvsmum. Plus adding a little calcium and potassium may help, too.

Beth Young said...

Change at least your insoles, and possibly your whole shoes! Don't scrimp on shoes. I couldn't believe the difference this made for me. Maybe add magnesium too. Also do some calf and hamstring stretches whenever you get a chance. Lean your toes up against the wall or counter and lean into while doing something else. Standing in the hall for a moment, stretch your quadriceps by pulling your foot up against your butt. Massage your own lower back when you have a free hand. Touch your toes. Think of yourself as a tight rubber band that needs to be loosened top to bottom. Some would also suggest tonic water for the quinine.