Steps You Can Take to Prevent Venous Insufficiency

Advanced Vascular Surgery offers a number of treatment solutions for venous insufficiency and the resulting conditions. Whether you are noticing the early signs of insufficiency or you have serious conditions like carotid artery disease, our experienced professionals will work closely with you to formulate a strategy to correct the problem and alleviate the symptoms you are experiencing. Before you get to the point that you need to speak with a vascular surgeon, there are steps that you can take to improve circulation on your own and hopefully avoid these conditions, altogether. In today’s post, we will discuss thing you can do to improve your circulation and overall health.

Get Moving

Exercise is crucial to your overall health, and walking is a great, low-impact exercise that can keep your blood pumping and even help you lose some weight. By walking, the action of the muscles helps stimulate the flow of blood throughout your body, helping your muscles and organs, and even lowering your blood pressure.

Proper Stretching

Did you know that by regularly stretching you will help your muscles and organs get the oxygen and nutrients they need? It’s true. By using proper stretching techniques, you will help blood flow, which will also help your body function properly and give you better motion and flexibility.

Proper Positioning

How you sit or lie down has a significant effect on your circulation. For example, when you cross your legs as you sit, the pressure of one leg on top of the other can hinder the flow of blood in both. You should sit with your legs slightly apart, remembering not to stay in the same position for too long. If you can, elevating your feet at least six inches on a stool or Ottoman will help, and propping your legs up on a pillow while you sleep is good for circulation and your spine.

Wear Compression Stockings

You may have a job where you sit or stand in the same position for hours at a time. This can result in swelling and pain. By wearing compression stockings, your leg muscles will continuously relax and contract, stimulating blood flow.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can cause irreversible damage to your veins and blood vessels, resulting in blood clots, swelling, and other circulatory problems. Quitting can be difficult, so ask you primary care physician about the options available to help you kick this habit.

Reduce Stress

This is another difficult one, especially if you have a high stress job. Take time for yourself to try to relieve your stress. It could be something as simple as taking a walk or listening to some music, or possibly seeing a psychotherapist to help you find the right coping mechanism. The reduction of stress will help your body relax and blood flow more freely.

If you are concerned about your circulation, contact Advanced Vascular Surgery and schedule your initial consultation.