Caring for Your Varicose Veins

By Reeder Vein Institute
April 15, 2016

varicose veins treatmentIf the veins on the back of your calves, knees and thighs become large, twisted and swollen, you have varicose veins. These are brought on when the valves in your veins are not working correctly, causing blood to accumulate and pressure in the veins of your legs to increase. Besides being unsightly, varicose veins can be very painful. Here are some useful tips for caring for, and finding relief from, your varicose veins:

  1. Use compression stockings. Compression stockings are tightest at the foot and gradually get looser as they come up the leg. They are an excellent way to hinder the progress of varicose veins and improve circulation. There are several different varieties available depending on the severity of your condition.
  2. Elevate your legs. If possible, raise your legs above the level of your heart two to three times a day for 20 minutes each time. If you’re unable to do this, elevate them for at least 30 minutes when you come home from work
  3. Avoid heels. Wearing heels on a regular basis makes it nearly impossible for your calf pump to function, which decreases circulation and can worsen your condition. Wear short heels, or if possible, wear athletic shoes with good arch support.
  4. Don’t sit or stand for too long. Try to keep moving as much as possible. If you’re unable to do that because of a long car or plane ride, for example, get up and walk around the length of the plane or get out of the car every couple of hours to walk around for five minutes.
  5. Stay out of whirlpools and hot tubs. Extremely hot water elevates the pooling of blood in your legs and widens your veins. Heated water increases the pooling of blood in your feet and legs and causes your veins to widen.

Do you suffer from varicose veins? Contact Reeder Vein Institute.

For more information about treating varicose veins, contact us today.  You can reach us directly at 682-499-5672 in Fort Worth.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Chronic Venous Disease

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