Leg Heaviness

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Leg Heaviness

Have you ever noticed a feeling of heaviness in your legs? Do your legs become swollen for no reason that you are aware of? The heaviness of the legs can be a very unpleasant sensation. And it can also be linked to swelling or edema. The reason why your legs feel heavy could be due to a severe condition known as venous insufficiency. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the cause of this feeling and learn about your leg heaviness treatment options.

Do Your Legs Feel Heavy? This May Be the Cause

The feeling of heavy legs is also commonly referred to as venous insufficiency. It happens when there is a problem with the blood flow in the legs. When blood flow becomes impaired, it can cause the heaviness feeling to occur.

When there is proper circulation in the body, the venous system and muscles in the legs work together to ensure the blood flows from the lower extremities to the heart. But when there is venous insufficiency, the blood becomes trapped due to weakened or damaged blood valves that no longer work properly.

Venous insufficiency can occur when the muscles of the legs lose their strength. That can cause the venous system to become sluggish, which leads to a heavy feeling in the legs. When left untreated, the problem with heavy legs can lead to other issues, including varicose veins.

The Risk Factors for Venous Insufficiency and How to Find Relief

Several risk factors can be involved with venous insufficiency. Such as,

  • Your age
  • Sex (Females are more prone to this condition than males)
  • Lack of exercise
  • Wearing tight clothing
  • Family history
  • Wearing shoes with heels that are too high
  • Sitting or standing for too long.

If issues with heavy legs cause you too much pain or discomfort, there are a few things you can do to relieve the pain.

  • Drink more water or herbal tea.
  • Move your toes to help stimulate blood flow.
  • Stand on your tiptoes to stimulate the muscles in your legs.
  • Elevate your legs using a cushion
  • Massage your legs in an upward motion
  • To help eliminate pain, try wearing compression socks that are specifically designed to stimulate blood flow.

How to Prevent The Problem

You can help to prevent the effects of heaviness in the legs by taking a few simple measures. Doing so can be especially helpful if you have any of the risk factors mentioned above. The following tips can help you strengthen your muscles and your body’s venous system while also improving your overall wellness. Remember that failure to treat problems with the venous system could lead to more severe issues, so it’s imperative to see one of our specialists for treatment while also taking these preventative measures.

  • Take showers and baths in lukewarm water. Hot water helps to dilate the blood vessels while cold water constricts them.
  • Exercise more often by walking, jogging, or riding a bike
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support good circulation
  • Eat well, and reduce your salt and processed food intake.
  • Do not wear high heels for an extended period.
  • Don’t wear tight pants or socks that could hinder the body’s circulation.
  • Do not smoke. Smoking can be bad for the blood vessels as well as being bad for your overall health. If you do smoke, try talking with your doctor to get help to quit.


Get Help With Leg Heaviness

If you live in the Brentwood, Walnut Creek, or surrounding cities, you can get relief from leg heaviness by contacting BASS Vein Center. We are here to help with all types of problems associated with venous insufficiency. Contact us today for more details.

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