Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy Related

Review Anatomy and Physiology of Pregnancy related questions and content

A woman who is primigravida is complaining of leg cramps. Which statement by the nurse best describes how to provide relief from this discomfort?

  • A. Extend both of your legs and touch your toes to stretch your calf muscle.
  • B. Dorsiflex the foot to relieve the cramping.
  • C. Elevate the leg above your heart until the cramp has subsided.
  • D. Plantar flex the foot to relieve the cramping.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dorsiflex the foot to relieve the cramping. Dorsiflexing the foot, which involves pulling the toes towards the shin, helps to stretch the calf muscle and alleviate cramping. This action targets the specific muscle group affected by leg cramps.

A: Incorrect. Stretching by extending both legs and touching your toes may not directly target the calf muscle.
C: Incorrect. Elevating the leg above the heart is more suitable for reducing swelling, not necessarily relieving leg cramps.
D: Incorrect. Plantar flexing the foot (pointing toes away from the shin) may worsen the cramping as it contracts the calf muscle further.