Varicose veins and spider veins are caused by damage to the valves within the blood vessel that help regulate blood flow. When these valves are not functioning properly, it creates problems with circulation and can keep blood from properly pumping out of the leg and to the heart. As a result, you are likely to experience twisted blue or red lines on your legs and feet that bulge or appear just below the skin’s surface. Patients have cosmetic and medical reasons that compel them to seek treatment for varicose veins and spider veins at Advanced Vein Therapy. Compression therapy is one of the tools we use in improving your appearance, helping you recover after treatment, and in eliminating any discomfort you may be experiencing.
Compression Therapy Benefits
Varicose veins and spider veins can leave unsightly lines and bulges that appear on your legs and feet. For many patients, being self-consciousness over varicose veins can keep them from wearing shorts, skirts, swimsuits, or similarly revealing types of items. In more severe cases, you may experience uncomfortable physical symptoms, including painful cramps, itching or tingling sensations, and an overall feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the legs. All of these symptoms are indicative of an underlying venous disease and are important for you to address.
Compression therapy is one of the options that can aid in your treatment. This involves using special socks or stockings that compress the veins, keeping them contracted and clear of pooled blood. In effect, they act as a ‘muscle,’ increasing overall blood flow in the area. Compression socks and stockings range in size, materials, and strengths, depending on your particular needs. Used alone or combined with other treatments available through Advanced Vein Therapy, compression therapy benefits include the following:
- Reduces swelling caused by poor circulation and excess fluid buildup;
- Provides support, preventing feelings of heaviness in the legs, which can prevent you from walking or engaging in other healthy activities;
- Helps to eliminate cramping and leg pain, which is particularly helpful for patients required to stand for long periods;
- Reduces sensations of throbbing and tingling in the legs, which can result in more restful sleep;
- Aids in healing after varicose vein treatment;
- Reduces the risk of blood clots, which can result in embolism and other serious complications.
Compression Therapy At AVT
Compression therapy can be used to help reduce the likelihood of spider veins and varicose veins in those most at risk. This includes people who are overweight or lead a sedentary lifestyle, those required to sit or stand for long periods, women who are pregnant, and anyone with a family history of venous disease. Compression therapy also plays an important role in aiding your recovery from treatments we offer at AVT for eliminating varicose veins. These include:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), which relies on radio waves in treating venous diseases;
- Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT), which uses light energy to seal off damaged veins and directs blood flow to healthier areas;
- Sclerotherapy, which involves using an FDA approved sterile, foam solution to seal the damaged vein.
All of these procedures can be performed directly in our office, are minimally invasive, and can allow you to return to your normal activities almost immediately. Compression therapy plays a key role in your recovery as it provides protection and support for the treatment site and encourages circulation and blood flow, which aids in healing.
The amount of time you need to wear compression socks or stockings after treatment will depend on the exact treatment you received, the extent of your varicose veins, and any extenuating circumstances involved in your case. Compression therapy may continue for anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks after your procedure and may involve wearing compression socks or stockings during the day. Our team of highly skilled and experienced Interventional Radiologists will provide detailed instructions for you to follow, based on your needs and your particular situation.
Contact Us Today for Help
At Advanced Vein Therapy, we can guide you through treatment options, which can eliminate the appearance of varicose veins and spider veins while addressing any symptoms you may be suffering from associated with venous diseases. For professional help in obtaining a diagnosis and in determining your best treatment options, call our Boise office or contact AVT online request a consultation today.