Tired Legs
Tired Legs
Everyone who has gone for a long walk, run, or climbed a long set of stairs knows what it feels like to have tired legs. For most, this sensation disappears after a period of rest. For those who suffer from tired or aching legs, that same feeling lasts even after extended periods of downtime. For many this condition causes an achy feeling that can last all day and even disrupt sleep patterns at night.
The vein specialists at Advanced Vein Therapy in Boise are dedicated to helping people live their lives without pain and discomfort. We want can help you understand the underlying conditions that may be leading to tired, achy legs and then we will help you make the best decision for your unique situation so that you can get back to enjoying life again.
Tired leg symptoms
Tired leg symptoms typically occur at the end of the day. Most people notice exhaustion in their legs and feet after a long day of work or play. Some people describe the feeling as a light irritable tingling, or a soft burning sensation.
At first, with time and rest the feeling dissipates. As time progresses, the uncomfortable feeling lasts longer and progresses into the muscles where it can cause severe cramping. In some cases, tired legs don’t develop cramps and instead experience a feeling of tension that won’t go away.
Sufferers might also have swelling in the ankles that lead to itchy legs and feet. Additional symptoms include discoloration and that cuts or wounds take a long time to heal.
The Causes
Tired leg symptoms occur when your legs are not receiving enough oxygen from your blood through the veins. Veins use specialized valves and muscular pumps to move blood from your feet back up to your heart. When the muscles in your legs don’t get enough oxygen, they become tired, achy and may have cramps and swell. Causes of tired leg syndrome may include the following:
- Smoking poses multiple threats to your health. It affects your circulation and puts you at higher risk for cancer and tired legs.
- Long periods of time spent on your feet causes the blood to pool and may aggravate the symptoms associated with tired legs.
- Much like standing, long periods of time spent seated and trigger tired leg symptoms.
- Excess weight puts pressure on your veins and can lead to swelling and cramping in your legs.
- Tight clothing and high heels increase your chances of experiencing symptoms.
- Pregnancy affects circulation and adds weight to your body putting pressure on your veins.
Things you can do to reduce the risk of tired legs
The following are steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing tired legs:
- If you smoke, stop. Eliminating cigarettes may help alleviate the sensations associated with tired leg syndrome.
- If your job requires long periods of sitting or standing, make sure to get up and go for quick walks every hour or ask for a standing desk to work at. Use your break time to either sit and relax or go for a brisk walk.
- Wear comfortable shoes with support and clothing that doesn’t constrict.
- Engage in a regular exercise routine that helps eliminate extra weight and improve circulation.
- Maintain a healthy diet designed to avoid weight gain.
If you have taken measures to improve your leg health and you haven’t seen a reduction in the symptoms, call Advanced Vein Therapy in Boise, and schedule a consultation.
Advanced Vein Therapy in Boise
At Advanced Vein Therapy we specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect your veins. Our experienced professionals understand the underlying causes of each condition and how to best treat them. We offer a variety treatment options that improve your health and quality of life. You don’t have to live with pain. Call us today to schedule a consultation with one of our physician and get back to enjoying your life again.