International Journal of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Background: Edema in the lower extremities is a common discomfort experienced by women during the third trimester of pregnancy, often affecting mobility and quality of life. Non-pharmacological interventions such as Faradism under pressure (FUP) and Buerger Allen exercises (BAE) have been explored for their therapeutic benefits in managing edema.

Material and Methods: A total of 150 pregnant women in their third trimester (28-40 weeks), diagnosed -with non-complicated pregnancies and presenting with bilateral lower extremity edema, were randomly allocated into two groups of 75 each. Group A received Faradism under pressure therapy, while Group B performed Buerger Allen exercises. Interventions were administered for 30-35 minutes, 6 days in a week for 4 weeks period. Pre- and post-intervention measurements pitting edema grading scale and standardized Quality of Life questionnaire (SF36).

Result: Both groups showed significant improvement in reduction of lower limb edema and enhanced quality of life post-intervention (p < 0.05). However, the Faradism under pressure group demonstrated significantly greater reduction in lower extremity edema and improvement in quality-of-life scores compared to the Buerger Allen exercise group.

Discussion: The findings suggest that Faradism under pressure is more effective in managing pregnancy-induced lower limb edema due to its mechanical effects on venous and lymphatic drainage. While Buerger Allen exercise also contributes to edema management through gravitational and circulatory improvements, its effects were comparatively milder.