Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and tortuous.
Veins have valves to prevent blood from flowing backwards. Leg muscles pump the veins to return blood to the heart against the effects of gravity. When veins become varicose, these valves cease to function normally. This allows blood to flow backwards causing the veins to enlarge as they fill with back-flowing blood.
Varicose veins commonly affect the legs. They are most common in the superficial veins of the legs, which are subject to high pressure when standing. Varicose veins, they can also be painful and itchy. Scratching varicose veins can cause the skin to break, resulting in ulcers.
Proactive measures should be taken when varicose veins are still mild or moderate in order to prevent the need for surgical intervention.
At Footcare Place Toronto, non-surgical treatments for varicose veins include compression stockings, short-stretch bandages, elevation of the legs, and exercise.