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How Do Varicose Veins Develop on The Ankles?
Jan 22, 2021
Tiny valves in the veins that are supposed to push blood back to the heart malfunction, allowing blood to build up within the vein. When unable to hold this excess blood, the vein wall is stretched to the point where the purple-blue veins become visible. Varicose veins develop on the ankles and feet for the same reason they develop anywhere else along the leg.
Because veins in the feet and ankles experience the greatest amount of force from gravity, they struggle to push blood back to the heart, making veins around the ankle even more susceptible to becoming varicosed. Other risk factors for developing varicose veins in the ankles or feet include:
Giving your veins the medical attention they deserve. The above methods do not treat varicose veins and often mask the symptoms for a period. Current surgeries for varicose veins use only minimal amounts of local anesthesia and are completed in brief outpatient procedures. A vein specialist can discuss your options.
Because veins in the feet and ankles experience the greatest amount of force from gravity, they struggle to push blood back to the heart, making veins around the ankle even more susceptible to becoming varicosed. Other risk factors for developing varicose veins in the ankles or feet include:
- Prolonged Standing . When you stand for long periods day after day, blood flow can slow, which can eventually cause varicose veins to develop around the ankles or feet.
- Obesity . Being overweight increases the stress on already overburdened veins in the ankles or feet.
Can you Treat Varicose Veins on the Ankles and Feet?
Below are some simple at-home remedies to ease the pain and find temporary relief from the symptoms that occur with varicose veins, however medical attention should be sought to eliminate the unhealthy veins and to diminish or remove the symptoms that develop from varicose veins.- Elevate Your Legs . Propping up your legs on pillows or against the wall allows blood to drain toward the heart. This reduces the pressure on your veins, easing discomfort particularly in the feet and ankles.
- Exercise . You do not necessarily need to start a rigorous exercise program; a brisk walk daily is all that is necessary to energize calf muscles that can then help veins push blood along in the veins. Although the thought of working out with painful, swollen ankles and feet sounds counterintuitive, exercise can be the best way to minimize the discomfort. Exercises like swimming and yoga are also good choices.
- Wear Compression Stockings . The compression the stockings apply to the veins encourages blood flow in the right direction When veins are not working properly, they sometimes need extra help. Compression socks are available in drugstores, or by prescription if you require a higher grade of pressure.
- Eat a Healthy Diet that is good for your veins . Foods high in antioxidant vitamins C, E, and K are great for circulation. These would include fruits and vegetables like spinach, kale, blueberries, pineapples, onions, and oranges. Avoid foods loaded with refined sugars, salt, caffeine, and processed fats that contribute to slowing the blood flow.
- Wear Flats . Wearing high heels makes it harder for blood to circulate. By switching to flat-soled shoes that engage the calf muscles it improves circulation in the calves, feet, and ankles.
Giving your veins the medical attention they deserve. The above methods do not treat varicose veins and often mask the symptoms for a period. Current surgeries for varicose veins use only minimal amounts of local anesthesia and are completed in brief outpatient procedures. A vein specialist can discuss your options.
Are you ready to Heal Your Varicose Veins?
Our experienced staff at Upperline Florida Vein Center can help you overcome the pain of varicose veins. If you are one of the millions of people experiencing the symptoms of varicose veins, we can help. We perform treatments personally tailored to your specific vascular needs with a goal to improve your overall quality of life. Contact us today to set up an initial appointment at (386) 281-3524.
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