Time to Put Your Feet Up!
Superficial veins, especially of the legs, can become swollen, twisted and lengthened. Initially you might think it’s just a cosmetic problem but when these veins don’t function effectively blood can flow backward and cause pressure in the vein to increase.
Over time, this can cause PAINFUL, ITCHING and TIRED legs. To prevent varicose veins:
- Walk regularly to improve circulation of blood in your legs and reduce pressure inside the veins.
- Do foot and leg exercises if sitting for long periods of time. Raise your heels to shift pressure on to your toes for instance, or rotate your feet and ankles to aid circulation in the legs.
- Avoid standing without moving, as the leg muscles aid circulation of blood in the legs.
- Put your feet up when sitting to reduce pressure inside leg veins and minimise ankle swelling.
- Consider wearing light compression full-length socks or tights, as these reduce the pressure inside veins and can improve aching legs. A nurse specialist or a general practitioner can prescribe graduated compression stockings for more severe varicose veins.
- Maintain a healthy weight as obesity increases pressure inside the leg veins.
- Eat a including high-fibre foods because constipation and straining during bowel movements can worsen varicose veins.
If you are concerned about your veins maybe it’s time you booked an appointment with one of our Osteopaths or came in for a 30 minute massage to give those tired legs a treat!
Heavy massage over severe varicose veins is not recommended so be sure use a well-qualified massage therapist!
We have massage available most days of the week so give us a call or follow the ‘Online Booking’ link at the top of the page .