Varicose veins are swollen and twisted, visible veins just under the surface of the skin. They develop when the one-way valves within the veins become weak or damaged disrupting the natural flow of blood towards the heart. When the valves malfunction, blood backs up and pools within the veins causing them to swell. While varicose veins can happen anywhere in the body, they are most commonly found within the legs.
Leg and ankle pain are common symptoms of varicose veins and can literally knock you off your feet. Aching calves, burning legs, numbness and overall discomfort in the lower extremities are a chief complaint of varicose vein patients. There are a number of potential causes of leg pain and if you cannot relate the pain to a source such as a fall, it may require medical evaluation. Leg pain that comes on suddenly and strong with no relief in a reasonable amount of time should be evaluated sooner than later.
Some of the best techniques to relieve leg and ankle pain are elevation and the use of compression stockings. If the source of pain is from varicose veins you will likely find relief from elevating your feet above the heart periodically during the day for 10 to 15 minute intervals. Compression garments are clothing in the form of socks, pantyhose or even a sleeve offering support to promote circulation. Learn more about compression stockings here.
The appropriate treatment for leg and ankle pain depends on the underlying cause. Pain is the body’s way of signaling to you something is not working properly. If leg and ankle pain is also accompanied by spider veins, protruding leg veins, itching and soreness behind the knee, or brown discoloration especially around the ankle you may benefit from a consultation with an experienced vascular surgeon who can diagnose the source of the problem and develop a treatment plan for you.
When the symptoms of varicose veins begin to negatively impact your daily activities of living, it is time to seek treatment. The physicians — of Premier Vein Clinics are the largest group of board-certified vascular surgeons in the Knoxville area. Locally owned and operated by physicians who call Knoxville home, you can count on our professional staff to be here when you need us most.
Don’t let leg and ankle pain hold you back from the things you love in life. Take a few moments to complete our online self-assessment to find out if you could benefit from a consultation at Premier Vein Clinics. When you are ready, request an appointment online or call (865) 588-8229 today.