The Facts About Varicose Veins

They are unsightly and painful and one out of every two adults over 50 suffers from them. Varicose veins are enlarged veins, often dark blue and purple in color, that appear to be swollen and twisted, very close to the surface of the skin. Although they usually appear on the calves and the inside of the legs, they may affect any area of the body.

Tips to avoid varicose veins.
To determine whether you might be at a greater risk to develop varicose veins, consider the following:
  • A family history of varicose veins (genetic predisposition)
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy (due to increased pressure on the legs)
  • A job that requires long periods of standing
  • Frequent heavy lifting
  • Sitting for long periods of time with crossed legs
  • Eating a low-fiber diet that causes constipation
There are certain things you can do to try to prevent varicose veins, including:
  • Exercise on a regular basis; walking in particular increases the strength of the veins in your legs
  • Avoid sitting with your legs crossed
  • Elevate your legs while sitting or resting
  • Get up and walk around every 30-45 minutes if you work in a job that requires you to sit for long periods of time
  • Try not to stand for long periods of time. If you must, shift your weight frequently from foot to foot and wear support stockings or socks
  • Maintain a healthy weight for your height
  • Eat a high fiber diet, including bran, and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure regular bowel movements

Most of the time, no treatment is necessary for varicose veins. Chiropractic care, which is known to improve the flow of blood through the body, is a non-invasive alternative that may help relieve and/or control varicose veins. Please call our office to discuss your concerns; we will be happy to meet with you.

Dr. Jeri Asks some important questions of interest to Sacramento residents - Chiropractor Sacramento Dr. Jeri Asks...

If you have a fever, are you sick or healthy?
Chiropractors love asking this question because it gets to the root of the chiropractic difference. Turns out fevers, vomiting, coughing and even sneezing are all healthy responses. It means your body is working correctly. Taking medications to suppress these natural processes can actually prolong your recovery.
Why are some people allergic to pollen and others aren't?
It's not the pollen. Chiropractors know that if it were, everyone would be allergic to pollen, nuts and pet dander. But that's not the case. It's the person, not the pollen! If you live in Sacramento and your stress levels are high, then each year the grass, the trees or the weeds put your nervous system over the top. Many report that chiropractic care helps reduce the frequency and severity of their allergic response.