Arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When this blood becomes deoxygenated, it returns via the veins. Veins have flaps on them that allow blood to flow in one direction. When these flaps become faulty, blood backs up in them leading to varicose veins. When they appear, there can be pain and swelling in the feet and ankles. There are several ways varicose veins can be treated and cured.
Step 1
Wear support stockings. These are also called maternity stockings because of pregnant women being susceptible to varicose veins. Wearing these socks can relieve the pressure from the ankles by promoting blood circulation up the legs.
Step 2
Elevate your legs. When you are sitting or lying down for long periods of time, blood has a tendency to pool up in the feet and ankles exacerbating the pain. Lie or sit with your feet elevated above your heart.
Step 3
Do nonimpact exercise. Exercise can help increase the blood flow in your legs which can reduce the swelling and pain in your ankles. Examples of nonimpact exercise include elliptical training, swimming, rowing and walking.
Step 4
Do a yoga pose. Lie on your back next to a wall with your body parallel to it. Keep your butt against the wall and turn your body 90 degrees. While you do this, lift your legs up in the air and against the wall. Straighten them out and hold. Your body should be in a 90 degree angle with the backs of your legs against the wall.
Step 5
Reduce your intake of sodium. Sodium is a nutrient that can increase the amount of water your body retains. If your sodium intake is high, it can increase swelling in your ankles. Eliminate salt and foods that are high in sodium such as frozen dinners, soups and processed instant meals.
Step 6
Consider surgery. A catheter, or small tube, is inserted into a vein and heated. The heat destroys the vein by collapsing it and sealing it closed as the catheter is being pulled out.
Step 7
Try herbal formulas. Various herbal formulas can be used topically or orally to help reduce pain and swelling. Examples of these include horse chestnut, witch hazel, butcher's broom, hawthorn and gotu kola.
Things You'll Need
- Support stockings
