Alternative Treatment Methods for Varicose Veins

If you discover twisted, darkish blue knobby lines just below the surface of the skin on your legs, you probably have varicose veins or the beginnings of varicose veins, at least. Faulty valves are the major medical cause of this vein health problem, because they fail to perform their designated task and don’t allow blood to pool in the affected veins. The result is not merely cosmetic, although the presence of varicose veins is anything but attractive. Also, varicose veins can result in more serious health issues that will require medical attention, which is why it’s a good idea to seek treatment by a health professional.

Aside from the well known methods for treatment of varicose veins, there are additional, alternative methods that are lesser known, yet effective.

Alternative Treatment Methods for Varicose Veins

There are several ways to treat varicose veins. The most common procedures involve a medical approach that might include:

• Endovenous Laser Ablation
• Ambulatory Phlebectomy
• Sclerotherapy

These are all standard practices to treat the problem. However, alternative treatment methods are also possible. Your vein specialist may recommend compression therapy.

What Is Compression Therapy?

Compression therapy is the application of pressure or compression on the affected areas, e.g. the legs, to relieve the symptoms, and therefore the pain and swelling associated with varicose veins. The most common and reliable method of compression therapy is the wearing of elastic compression stockings. This affordable solution will help to improve the overall circulation that has been affected by varicose veins.

Compression therapy is also recommended in addition to or following other forms of treatment for varicose veins. By combining the two approaches, the recurrence rate is reduced. Moreover, the wearing of elastic compression stockings will also help reduce the potential for some of the few side effects of varicose vein surgery -“specifically blood clots.

Preventive Measures: Alternative Treatment Methods for Varicose Veins

Whenever possible, doctors, including specialist in varicose vein treatment, encourage prevention. Preventive medicine is always the best means to avoid medical treatment. As alternative treatment methods for varicose veins go, prevention is a proven means of addressing a potential medical problem. If you know you are at risk for the development of varicose veins, and if your age, your employment, your family medical history all indicate varicose veins is a potential health risk, seriously consider the following advice:

• Try to avoid standing for prolonged periods
• If you have a tendency to cross your legs while sitting, do so in moderation
• When you rest, sit or sleep, consider raising your legs by placing them on a pillow
• Adopt an active lifestyle and walk, run, exercise, play sports, bike
• Keep your weight down. Lose any excess poundage
• If you wear high heels: particularly stilettos, limit the time they are on your feet
• While tight clothing may be flattering, try to avoid it if it hugs snugly your legs, upper thighs, and/or waist

Yet, preventive measures can fail. When this occurs, consult a professional veins specialist. He or she can advise you as to what approach is best for your case. This could include surgery, as well as alternative treatment methods for varicose veins.

Learn more about the services we offer by calling our North Center location at 773-231-9884 or our Downtown Chicago location at 312-234-0750