1) Graduated Compression Stockings

There are many types of compression stockings. Very tight stockings may require a medical prescription by your doctor while very light compression stocking over the counter may not provide any benefit at all. Thus, the first step is to be evaluated by a vein a doctor, who can assess your risk and prescribe you the proper compression stockings with the correct pressure gradient and size that fits you specifically. Compression stocking work by providing pressure to your legs which helps your calf muscles to pump the blood against gravity back to the heart. This can also alleviate many of your symptoms such as leg cramping and fatigue after standing for few minutes.

2) Take Frequent Standing or Sitting Breaks

If you sit for too long, walk for few minutes to activate your calf muscle pump. If you stand for too long, take sitting breaks to relax your calf muscles. The goal is to keep the circulation flowing and prevent blood pooling in the legs (Venous Stasis).

3) Avoid Tight Clothing and High Heel

High heels can alter the natural walking motion which causes the calf muscle to remain contracted while walking. This leads to inefficiency of the calf muscles to pump the blood back to the heart. Therefore we recommend to save high heels for special events and limit the height of the heels to maintain natural walking motion.

4) Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Use

Not only smoking affects your heart, it can also damage the walls of your arteries and veins, creating a suitable environment for poor circulation. Damage to vein walls, can damage the one-way valves inside your veins. This can lead to venous insufficiency, a medical term to describe poor blood flow.

5) Exercise Regularly and Keep a Healthy Diet

Daily exercise can significantly increase calf muscle strength and efficiency. On the other hand, excess weight adds stress on your blood circulation, making it harder for your calf muscle to return blood to the heart. Weight loss can significantly prevent recurrence of varicose veins.

6) Avoid Salt in your Diet

Consuming high salty food may begin to impair the functioning of blood vessels within 30 minutes according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Too much salt in your diet can also lead to water retention and increased high blood pressure.

7) Use an Anti-Fatigue Mat

The cushioned surface of anti-fatigue mat encourages the foot to move. These small movements force your calf muscles to alternate between contraction and relaxation. These contraction work as a natural circulation pump.

Before & After