Many people sometimes develop symptoms of swollen and tired legs – mostly due to a long-standing activities. The problem usually occurs in people doing jobs that require standing for long periods of time: traders, hairdressers, bakers… Long trips can also cause discomfort, and even serious problems such as deep vein thrombosis.
When you walk or run, the calf muscles help in pumping blood to the heart, and thus pressure the blood vessels. However, while long resting, the blood can accumulate in the legs causing a feeling of heaviness and swollen ankles, which causes pain and tiredness.
If these symptoms keep repeating for a while, your body is giving you a sign that the venous system in your legs is overloaded causing perfect conditions for developing varicose veins.
How to avoid aching and swollen feet at the end of the day?
- Avoid everything that hinders the blood circulation (high heels, tight pants)
- Do not sit for a long with your legs crossed
- Use elastic bandages and compression stocks, to avoid any weakening of the blood vessels
- Walk and do exercises involving legs and ankles in order to strengthen your muscles and improve the blood circulation
- Lift your legs high above the chest and rest
- Try these simple exercises to improve the blood circulation in your legs
There are some tricks to help you reduce any discomfort caused by varicose veins. In the same way, you can prevent or slow the development of varicose veins.
Training
Walk, this helps your muscles improve the circulation by pressuring the blood vessels. Walking, running, sport activities – choose the physical activity you like best.
Regulate Your Weight And Diet
Excess weight adds additional pressure to the veins, so they can not function properly. The food you eat is also important – nutritionists recommend low intake of salt, and a diet rich in fiber, fruit and vegetables.
Avoid High Heels
When you walk in flat shoes the activity of the calf muscles is higher, compared to long walks in high heels. Do not wear to tight clothes – it can affect the blood circulation.
Avoid Standing or Sitting For a Long Time
If you do have to stand for a long time, swipe the balance from foot to foot in order to stimulate the circulation. If possible, take a small walk every half hour.
Lift Your Legs
When you lift your legs above the chest line, it is easier for the blood to go back to the heart, because of the gravitation. For example, lay down and put a few pillows under your legs, or put your legs on another chair while sitting.
Do Not Sit With Your Legs Crossed
Experts say that crossing your legs can cause problems with the blood circulation and hinder the returning of the blood to the heart.
Horse chestnut extract is used in treating chronic venous insufficiency, which occurs as a result of varicose veins when the blood can not return to the heart properly. Horse chestnut reduces swelling and pain caused by varicose veins. It can be used locally, as a cream, gel, ointment, and orally, the extract is applied as a pill.