Varicose Vein Treatments

Because compression socks or stockings are tight, it is best to put them on first thing in the morning before your legs begin to swell. These specially designed garments can help squeeze the blood up out of the veins in your legs and toward your heart. It can also help reduce swelling in your legs.

Compression socks or stockings apply tapered pressure to your leg. These garments come in two lengths: knee-high and thigh-high, with specific degrees of pressure. The stockings with the highest pressure are prescribed and specially fitted, whereas there are plenty of options that can be purchased over-the-counter at your local pharmacy or through an online retailer. Ask your doctor what degree of pressure may be right for you.

Some people may need to use compression socks or stockings for life to manage their varicose vein symptoms.

Elevating your legs as often as possible throughout the day can alleviate the pressure on blood to accumulate and pool in your leg veins.

Avoiding heat – such as hot showers, hot tubs, and saunas – can slow blood flow to the veins, lessening the chance of a blood pooling in your legs.

Taking one or more breaks every hour to change your position – especially if you spend a good deal of time either sitting or standing – can engage your leg muscles and help keep your blood moving.

Regularly taking the time to stretch your legs can help keep you limber and encourage good blood circulation. Low-impact exercises can help move the blood out of the veins in your legs and toward the heart. Try to be active for at least 30 minutes every day. Walking, biking, and swimming are excellent low-impact choices.