Vein related disorders are becoming a serious problem of the Western world – according to statistics, 50% of middle-aged adults in the United States are affected by conditions such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Thanks to our unhealthy diets and lack of physical exercise, vein related disorders have turned into chronic conditions that not only not look good, but they can also develop into more serious problems, such as leg ulcers or deep vein thrombosis.

There are various risk factors that help develop varicose veins, e.g. genetics, gender, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged standing or sitting, but in all cases they are related to poorly functioning vein valves or weak vein walls. When veins get damaged this way, it is impossible for the heart to pump blood properly against gravity, blood flow is compromised and eventually, blood starts pooling around ankles and in calves, causing swollen ankles, leg cramps and pain.

Many people who suffer from varicose veins avoid doctor’s treatment as long as possible and try various natural ways to help the painful veins first. One natural remedy that could help mild cases of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency are massages. For quite some time there was disagreement among massage therapists themselves about customers with varicose veins: some therapists avoided these areas entirely, some applied massages above and below the affected areas, some suggested massaging the veins over lightly.

 

Lately, most massage therapists came to a consensus that massage techniques such as lymphatic drainage and circulatory massage that increase general circulation and improve tissue nutrition are the most beneficial for clients with varicose veins. However, if you have broken skin, ulceration or your veins are inflamed and in pain, you should avoid massages as they could do more damage than good. Instead, have your legs thoroughly examined by a medical professional and consider potential medical treatments. Remember that the sooner you treat your varicose veins, the less complicated and costly the treatment will be!