The Effect of Modified Buerger–Allen Exercises on Lower Extremities Edema in Late Pregnancy: Randomized Clinical Trial

Background Lower limbs edema is one of the common problems in late pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the effect of modified Berger–Allen exercises on lower limb swelling in late pregnancy. Materials and Methods This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 105 pregnant women suffering from lower limbs edema. Samples were randomly placed in three groups: modified Buerger–Allen exercises for five days, modified Buerger–Allen exercises for ten days, and the control group. Foot circumferences and volume and pain were measured before and after the study. Results There was a significant difference between the average of right and left ankle circumference, right and left heel circumference, right and left foot circumference, left foot volume and pain score after the 5-day intervention group ( p < 0.05). In the 10-day intervention group, there was a significant difference in all averages of ankles, heels, foot circumference and volume, and pain score 10 days after the intervention, compared to before the intervention ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Performing innovative modified Buerger–Allen exercises in pregnant women with lower limbs edema may reduce their pain and swelling. It can also reduce the leg areas in pregnant women with lower limb edema in late pregnancy. Trial registration Approval number from Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20200713048096N1 (Registration date: 2020-11-12).