Maintaining healthy legs is our goal at Vascular Vein Centers. We have dedicated this month to educating our patients about vein care. Besides having sexy, great-looking legs, a few healthy habits can help to prevent vein disease and its complications—pain, swelling, clots, ulcers, DVT and pulmonary embolism.

Did you know that varicose veins affect over 25 million Americans? Over $3 billion is spent each year on missing work days. Although these numbers are staggering, if you follow these simple tips, you can maintain healthy legs and prevent or limit varicose and spider veins.

1. Exercise

This keeps the calf pump working, especially when walking, running or biking.

2. Get in the water

Exercise or walk in the water, especially late in the day. This helps relieve venous congestion and swelling.

3. Elevate your legs

Keep your legs elevated on a stool or a desk whenever possible.

4. Wear compression stockings daily

Compression stockings can help to relieve symptoms of venous disease and can help prevent varicose and spider veins or keep them from progressing. Compression is especially important if you have a job that requires long periods of sitting or standing.

5. Sit properly

Put as little pressure as possible on the underneath of your thigh. Try not to let your legs dangle or cross them for significant periods of time.

6. Wear the right shoes

Wear low heeled shoes to promote the calf pump. Heels can inhibit your calf pump from working properly, so reserve wearing heels for those special, show time occasions.

7. Stay active when traveling

In addition to wearing compression stockings, if you are on a trip that limits your movement (i.e. airplane or car), take a few minutes every hour to stand and walk around. Calf exercises such as moving your foot forward and backward can help with circulation.

8. Take the stairs

Use the stairs instead of the elevator to help promote the calf pump and blood circulation.

9. Avoid obesity

Extra pounds put your veins “under pressure,” making it more difficult for your blood to circulate efficiently.

10. Maintain a healthy diet

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Studies show that bioflavonoids may help to strengthen vein walls. Avoid salt, it can predispose to swelling.

11. Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water, especially while traveling. Adults should drink two liters daily—especially in summer months.

12. Avoid constricting garments

Tight fitting/constricting clothes (i.e. girdles) affect the abdomen and upper legs by making it more difficult for your blood to circulate efficiently, especially when traveling.

13. Keep your skin well lubricated

Moisturize your legs, especially in the lower calf and ankle area. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Following these simple lifestyle changes can help to keep your blood circulating and your legs beautiful. If you want more useful tips and information, find us on Facebook where we’ll post insight into treatments and the latest research, or to speak with our physician one-on-one, schedule a priority consultation.

Join us this month and dedicate yourself to preventing vein disease and maintaining beautiful, healthy legs.

Sincerely,
Your Friends at Vascular Vein Centers