The 'Movement' to Prevent Varicose Veins

To some people, varicose veins might fall in the same category as other inevitable aging factors – such as balding, graying and wrinkling skin – but it is actually a common blood vessel disorder over which we do have some control.

For the more than 40 million Americans dealing with varicose veins, it is likely known that they can become a nuisance causing pain and swelling in the legs. In rare cases they can lead to ulcers and clots. The clumpy blue masses under our skin occur when blood vessels widen and the valves that keep blood flowing toward the heart become weakened, causing blood to back up.

Developing varicose veins isn’t always avoidable as some of the risk factors include age, gender and family history of the disorder. However, there are some ways to help prevent them or prevent the condition from worsening, for those who already have them.

Exercise regularly

While exercise may not be a direct solution to varicose veins, it does help with being overweight or sedentary, factors which can raise one’s chances of developing the condition. Muscle tone and blood flow are supported by exercises, and activity such as walking or jogging can help us avoid or recover from blood clots.

Avoid long durations of sitting and standing

Long durations of sitting make blood flow more difficult, particularly for people over the age of 40 who are obese or frequently travel long distances via plane or car. These individuals are at higher risk of deep vein thrombosis, a type of potentially perilous blood clot that can form in the legs. To increase blood flow while traveling, keep moving, avoid crossing your legs and wear loose clothes or flat shoes.

Wear compression stockings

Compression socks and stockings can help vein valves stay in the right position and improve blood circulation. It may sound counterintuitive to wear socks that hug our legs, but when properly fitted by a certified compression stocking fitter, the socks can keep blood from pooling up in our legs.

It’s important to talk to your physician when deciding to wear compression socks if you’re at risk for developing varicose veins or already have them, travel frequently, have to regularly sit or stand for more than a few hours at a time, or have had a problem with clotting in the past.

Use natural treatments

There are a few natural treatment options that promote circulatory system health and may help varicose veins. These include butcher’s broom, which is derived from an evergreen shrub; horse chestnut, a plant; gotu kola, an herb; and mesoglycan, a supplement known for its vascular healing qualities.

Although we can’t do much about our age, gender or family history, these tips show we do have some control in our ability to reduce the chances of developing new varicose veins or worsening those already formed.

John Walczyk is a registered compounding pharmacist at Johnson Compounding & Wellness in Waltham (www.naturalcompounder.com). Readers with questions about natural or homeopathic medicine, compounded medications, or health in general can email john@naturalcompounder.com or call 781-893-3870.