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Why do my Legs Feel Heavy at the End of the Day?

At the end of the day, most of us are tired, ready to kick up our feet and relax on the couch. But for many people, it’s not just tiredness from the day. Heavy legs that ache, are sore or cramp can often be a sign of something more than just daily fatigue. At the end of the day, if it feels like you’re dragging around bags of flour instead of legs, there is a chance it’s being caused by an underlying medical condition.

Heavy legs are often an indicator of one of the following conditions:

Varicose Veins

One of the most common causes of heaviness in the legs is varicose veins.

Varicose veins are caused by a wide range of factors, for a general overview, see Common reasons varicose veins form. 

Veins are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from around the body, back up to the heart. However, when vein valves, or vein walls, become damaged they can lead to Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). So, why do the legs feel heavy? When CVI occurs, blood is not able to flow back up to the heart and it begins to reflux or pool, forming twisted, enlarged vessels which often ache, especially after extended periods of walking or standing.

PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease)

This occurs when fatty deposits build up on the walls of your arteries, restricting the blood flow. This most commonly occurs in the legs and is exacerbated by other factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. It often causes aches and cramping.

Overtraining

This is not a disease or medical condition so much as the result of too much force on the legs. More common in athletes, but also anyone who is running a lot, training for a marathon or straining the muscles in your legs too much, overtraining means the muscles don’t have time to repair themselves and leads to fatigue and heaviness. Most common in cyclists and runners.

Learn more about why our muscles get sore: Why are my hamstrings tight?

Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome causes an uncomfortable feeling in the legs of heaviness, numbness and a throbbing shaky feeling whenever the legs are still. Movement relieves the symptoms, but unfortunately, there’s no clear cause.

What to do if my legs feel heavy at the end of the day

Whichever symptoms come along with the feeling of heaviness, it’s best to speak to your GP to get checked and diagnosed. From there you can confirm the best course of treatment. However, there are several things you can do yourself that help to manage heavy legs regardless of the cause.

  • Compression stockings: The use of medical-grade compression stockings is one of the most effective ways of treating heavy legs, as it boosts circulation to provide healthy blood-flow, stabilises the muscles for recovery and daily fatigue, and alleviates pain and twitching in the muscles.
  • Stretching and exercise: Keeping the legs moving is important for your vein health and general health. If you’re spending long periods of time sitting down for work, either at the desk or in the car, get up and move around a little every 20-30 minutes to keep the blood flowing and muscles moving.
  • Lifestyle: Changing your lifestyle to lose any excess weight, reduce cholesterol, fat and sugar in your diet, and quitting smoking are all great changes to make for your legs, and for your health as a whole.

Seek expert advice

The doctors at The Vein Institute specialise in varicose vein treatment. We offer patients a comprehensive program using non-surgical laser treatment techniques. You can learn more in our Definitive Guide to Varicose Vein Treatment.

The benefits of non-surgical varicose vein treatment are:

  • Walk-in walk-out treatment
  • 98% success rate
  • Extremely effective
  • Can be performed at a clinic (no hospitalisation)
  • No general anaesthetic
  • Medicare rebates apply
  • No downtime or time away from work

To book a consultation and discuss our treatment program, call  1300 981 402. Or, make an enquiry via the Contact Us page.

Heavy legs & MS: Everything you need to know

 

Why do my legs feel weak?

Feeling weakness in one or both of your legs is called monoparesis or paraparesis and can be a direct result of MS. You can also feel weakness in your arms and other areas of your body, but to feel it in your legs often occurs more frequently. 

The weakness can make your legs feel heavy, as if they are being weighed down by something. They may also ache and hurt. Some people with MS describe it as like having bags of sand attached to their legs. 

This muscle weakness combined with MS fatigue can be upsetting. Weakness in your legs can cause balance and walking difficulties and you may be more likely to fall. You may find that your legs can tire quickly making you feel a lack of physical strength, while fatigue brings on an intense exhaustion and lack of energy. Due to your legs feeling weak you need that extra energy to keep moving! It’s a vicious cycle as muscle weakness and MS fatigue are closely linked and one can make the other worse.      

What causes weakness in MS?

The muscle weakness that you are feeling can be directly linked to MS because the damage to your nerves can disrupt signals to the muscles. This nerve damage makes it hard to move your muscles and leads to a heavy feeling in your legs (or other areas of your body). MS spasticity can cause any muscle in your body to feel weak, heavy and difficult to move. It is a result of damage along the nerves of the brain and spinal cord controlling movement.

You may feel that as a result of MS you aren’t exercising regularly. This inactivity can lead to your muscles naturally becoming weaker which is known as deconditioning. This is why it is vital to keep up some form of gentle exercise at all times as part of the Overcoming MS program. 

What can I do if I have weakness?

Fortunately, there are many ways to help you manage MS muscle weakness and heavy legs. 

Exercising as part of the Overcoming MS program will help you to gently build up muscle strength and endurance which will improve any fatigue and weakness. Regular exercise will also ensure that you prevent any deconditioning and muscle wastage.  

Strength exercises such as squats, lunges and leg lifts will all help you to strengthen your legs if you have been feeling heaviness. Hold onto something as you are doing these exercises at first and you will gradually build up the strength and balance.

Combine the exercise with a nutritious and healthy diet plan so that you will not gain extra weight which adds strain to your legs muscles. Follow an MS diet which includes vitamin D and flaxseed supplements and is low in saturated fat, all of which can help manage your MS symptoms.

A physiotherapist will be able to show you suitable exercises to do, focusing on problem areas, while an occupational therapist can help you to make the most of your strength and ability by advising you on equipment to use. 

Although it is important to stay active, you need to combine this with rest. Try to plan your days to factor in periods of rest as you need to. If you are out for a walk, take regular stops, getting to know local places where you can sit down to take a break. Also make use of walking aids such as a cane, as they will make you feel more stable and can take the weight off your legs. Taking time out of your day to meditate will also help you to relax and reduce any stress that you may feel. 

What are the next steps?

If it seems like there is too much information and you don’t know where to start, read through our next steps – we can help you.

Leg Weakness – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Leg weakness can be caused by any kind of injury, neuromuscular diseases, toxins, or life-threatening illnesses such as stroke.

Spinal causes of leg weakness

Conditions that affect the spinal cord, the backbone (vertebrae) or the nerves that exit from the spinal cord can all cause leg weakness along with pain, burning, numbness or a tingling sensation along the course of the nerve that is affected. Examples include:

Traumatic causes of leg weakness

Injury to the bones, muscles or joints is known to cause leg weakness. Examples include:

  • Fractures of bone

  • Sprains and strains

Neuromuscular causes of leg weakness

A number of conditions that affect the muscles or nerves in the body can produce leg weakness. These conditions include:

  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease; severe neuromuscular disease that causes muscle weakness and disability)

  • Cerebral palsy (disordered brain function that leads to a variety of neuromuscular symptoms)

  • Fibromyalgia (chronic condition that causes pain, stiffness and tenderness)

  • Guillain-Barre syndrome (autoimmune nerve disorder)

  • Multiple sclerosis (disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, causing weakness, coordination and balance difficulties, and other problems)

  • Muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis)

  • Muscular dystrophy (inherited disorder that causes progressive loss of muscle tissue and muscle weakness)

  • Myasthenia gravis (autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes muscle weakness)

  • Polymyositis (widespread inflammation and weakness of muscles)

Toxins and drugs that cause leg weakness

Certain toxins and medications may cause muscle weakness including:

Serious or life-threatening causes of leg weakness

In some cases, leg weakness, particularly if it has a sudden onset and is localized to one side of the body, may be a sign of stroke, a life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Life-threatening causes of leg weakness include:

Questions for diagnosing the cause of leg weakness

To diagnose your condition, your doctor or licensed health care practitioner will ask you several questions related to your leg weakness including:

  • How long have you felt your leg weakness?

  • In which part of the leg does the weakness occur?

  • Have you injured your leg recently?

  • Do you have any other symptoms?

  • What medications are you taking?

What are the potential complications of leg weakness?

Because leg weakness can be due to serious diseases, failure to seek treatment can result in serious complications and permanent damage. Once the underlying cause is diagnosed, it is important for you to follow the treatment plan that you and your health care professional design specifically for you to reduce the risk of potential complications including:

  • Brain damage

  • Disability

  • Nerve problems that cause pain, numbness or tingling

  • Paralysis

  • Permanent or chronic pain

Leg Fatigue & Heaviness | Texas Vein Health Plano, TX

As we go about our daily activities, we often stress the leg muscles and ligaments. This often leads to leg fatigue or heaviness. This condition can also occur when blood flow is interrupted in the legs. You will experience swelling, heaviness, and general discomfort. Eventually, it will get to the point that walking becomes very tough.

What is Leg Fatigue or Heaviness?

Leg fatigue or heaviness is described as legs which feel tired, weighted, and stiff. The patient feels as if his or her legs are hard to lift or move forward. It will feel like you are dragging around a bag of flour of about 5 pounds.

Causes of Leg Fatigue or Heaviness

Leg fatigue or heaviness can be caused by various conditions. They include:

  • Varicose veins: The leg veins become enlarged.

  • Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): Buildup of fat deposits in the artery walls, thus, causing inadequate circulation of blood in the legs.

  • Overtraining syndrome: Excess training or physical activities to improve performance. The body will have less time to recover, thus, causing heavy legs.

  • Narrowing of the spinal column: This causes pain that affects the lower back and legs.

  • Restless leg

  • Smoking and drinking

Symptoms of Leg Fatigue or Heaviness

Some of the symptoms of heavy or fatigue legs include:

Treatment

Some treatment procedures that can help relieve the leg pains and achiness you are experiencing include:

Proper Rest: Take time to rest and take some days off overtraining or intense exercise.

Elevate Your Legs: Raise your legs about six to twelve inches above your heart level. This enables the pooled blood in your legs to drain out and flow to other parts of the body. You can also massage your legs.

Wear Compression Stockings: Putting on compression socks will help promote the flow of blood.

Lose Excess Weight: Obesity or buildup of fatty deposits in the leg arteries can block blood flow. Consider shedding some of your excess weight.

Regular Exercise: Performing exercise regularly can help control your weight, lower your cholesterol level, and improve the circulation of blood.

Stop Smoking or Drinking: Smoking or taking alcohol is known to bring about various conditions that cause heavy legs. Consider stopping these bad habits.

Recovery

Within a few days, you will feel relieved from the leg pains. The swelling, heaviness, and general discomfort will disappear gradually.

Result

You will be able to walk around without feeling any heaviness, tiredness, or stiffness in your legs.

Get Your Leg Fatigue or Heaviness Diagnosed at Texas Vein Health

For your leg fatigue diagnosis, turn to us today at Texas Vein Health. Our treatment procedures are affordable, reliable, and very effective. Dr. Vijay S. Ramanath will diagnose your condition and create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Give us a call today on (972) 378-9560 to schedule an appointment. Our experts will be available to speak with you and discuss your treatment options. An amazing experience awaits you.

What are the symptoms of PAD?

PAD is difficult to diagnose

The blood vessel changes that lead to PAD progress slowly and often go unnoticed. It is said to be quite difficult to notice any abnormalities in the early stages of the disease, since the symptoms are indistinct, such as a feeling of coldness or mild numbness, or pain in the feet and legs while walking that goes away after resting for a short time. Because of this, it is not uncommon to be diagnosed with PAD after the symptoms have become relatively severe.

PAD needs to be discovered and treated as early as possible in order to avoid a progression of the disease to the point that it makes day-to-day life difficult.

The Fontaine classification

Symptoms that arise when PAD has developed in the feet and legs can be divided roughly into the following four stages according to severity (Table 1):

Table 1 Fontaine classification





Stage 1Cold feet/legs, numbness in the feet/legs, and pale skin on the feet/legs
Stage IIPain in the feet/legs after walking a short distance, making it impossible to continue walking, but after resting for a short while walking can be resumed (intermittent claudication)
Stage IIIPain in the feet/legs even when at rest
Stage IVSkin sores on the feet/legs (ulcers) and necrosis

Even small signs should not be ignored

There are other symptoms suggestive of PAD besides those given in the Fontaine classification (Table 2).

Table 2 Symptoms suggestive of PAD

Feet/legs feel heavy and are difficult to lift when climbing stairs

Limbs feel very cold in the morning and evening

Coldness in the limbs to the extent that it is difficult to bear, creating a dislike of air conditioning in the summer

Tap water feels too cold to touch

Slight injuries and bruises do not heal easily

Presence of stubborn athlete’s foot

Conspicuous paleness in the areas with poor blood flow upon getting out of the shower/bath

Have to always wear thick socks

Also, it becomes difficult for the body to get nutrients to muscles in the areas with poor blood flow, which may then become leaner. Care is especially needed if the fingers or toes become leaner and weight is lost from the insteps (the part of the foot between the ball and the ankle).

PAD self-diagnosis checklist

Intermittent claudication is a symptom frequently seen in PAD patients. The condition needs to be treated before it progresses to a severe stage. Use the self-diagnosis checklist below to see if you have intermittent claudication.

1Do you get pain in either leg when walking?

2Does this pain ever begin when you are standing still or sitting?

3Does the pain include a calf / the calves?

4Do you get the pain when you walk uphill or when you hurry?

5Do you get the pain when you walk at an ordinary pace on a flat surface?

6Does the pain ever disappear while you are still walking?

7What do you do if you get the pain when you are walking?

8What happens to the pain if you stand still?

All of the following conditions must be met to make a diagnosis of intermittent claudication:

“Yes” to (1), (3), (4), and (5)

“No” to (2) and (6)

Stop or slacken pace for (7)

Usually relieved within 10 minutes for (8)

Source: Rose, G. A., et al.: Bulletin of the World Health Organization,

1962; 27(6), 645-584 (partially revised)

Restless legs syndrome – Illnesses & conditions

Mild restless legs syndrome that isn’t linked to an underlying health condition can be managed with just a few lifestyle changes.

If symptoms are more severe, medication may be needed.

Restless legs syndrome caused by an underlying health condition can often be cured by treating that condition. For example, iron deficiency anaemia can be treated by taking iron supplements.

If it’s associated with pregnancy, it usually disappears on its own within four weeks of the birth.

Lifestyle changes

A number of lifestyle changes may be enough to ease the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, including:

  • avoiding stimulants in the evening – such as caffeine, tobacco and alcohol
  • not smoking – read more about quitting smoking
  • taking regular daily exercise – but avoid exercising near bedtime
  • practising good sleep habits – for example, going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, not napping during the day, taking time to relax before going to bed, and avoiding caffeine close to bedtime
  • avoiding medicines that trigger the symptoms or make them worse – if you think medication is causing your symptoms, continue to take it and make an appointment to see your GP

During an episode of restless legs syndrome, the following measures may help relieve your symptoms:

  • massaging your legs
  • taking a hot bath in the evening
  • applying a hot or cold compress to your leg muscles
  • doing activities that distract your mind, such as reading or watching television
  • relaxation exercises, such as yoga or tai chi
  • walking and stretching

A small medical trial carried out in 2011 found a type of osteopathic exercise technique called positional release manipulation could be of benefit to people with restless legs syndrome. It involves holding different parts of the body in positions found to reduce feelings of pain and discomfort.

Medication

Dopamine agonists

Dopamine agonists may be recommended if you’re experiencing frequent symptoms of restless legs syndrome. They work by increasing dopamine levels, which are often low.

Dopamine agonists that may be recommended include:

  • ropinirole 
  • pramipexole 
  • rotigotine skin patch

These medications can occasionally make you feel sleepy, so you should be cautious when driving or using tools or machinery after taking them. Other possible side effects can include nausea, dizziness and headaches.

If you experience nausea while taking a dopamine agonist, you may be given medication to help with this (antiemitic medication).

Impulse control disorder (ICD) is a less common side effect sometimes associated with dopamine agonists.

People with ICD are unable to resist the urge to do something harmful to themselves or others. For example, this could be an addiciton to alcohol, drugs, gambling, shopping, or sex (hypersexuality).

However, the urges associated with ICD will subside once treatment with the dopamine agonist is stopped.

Painkillers

A mild opiate-based painkiller, such as codeine or tramadol, may be prescribed to relieve pain associated with restless legs syndrome.

Gabapentin and pregabalin are also sometimes prescribed to help relieve painful symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Side effects of these medications include dizziness, tiredness and headaches.

Aiding sleep

If restless legs syndrome is disrupting your sleep, a short-term course of medication may be recommended to help you sleep.

These types of medication are known as hypnotics, and include temazepam and loprazolam. Hypnotics are usually only recommended for short-term use (typically no longer than a week).

You may find you still feel sleepy or “hungover” the morning after taking your medication.  

Levodopa

Levodopa may be recommended if you only have occasional symptoms of restless legs syndrome. This is because if you took levodopa every day, there’s a high risk it would actually make your symptoms worse.

Levodopa is available in tablet or liquid form, and you should take it once you feel the symptoms of restless legs syndrome coming on.

The medication will make you feel very sleepy (often suddenly), so you should never drive or use tools or machinery after taking levodopa.

Leg pain: causes, treatment and prevention

Updated: January 2020

The term “leg pain” can actually include a number of problems. Pain in the legs can have a number of causes (i.e. muscles, bones, nerves, or blood vessels) and could indicate a wide range of conditions, with a varying levels of seriousness. This is why it’s important to talk to a doctor if you have persistent leg pain. They will be able to diagnose the problem and help you get the right treatment.

Characteristics of leg pain

Tingling, tightening or burning sensations, a feeling that your legs are heavy, itching, or muscle pain in the calves or thighs — all of these symptoms can be included under the category of leg pain. Leg pain may come on gradually (this is called chronic pain) or suddenly (known as acute pain) after a pull or strain or physical exertion, for example.

Causes of leg pain

Just as the symptoms of leg pain can vary, the causes can be equally diverse. Leg pain may originate from the muscles, bones, nerves, or blood vessels, among other things.

Muscular origin: this is generally the case for pain that comes on after sudden or repeated movements and persists afterwards. Most of the time, the pain will be due to cramping, soreness and stiffness, or to pulled, strained or torn muscles.

Bone origin: this is often the case for pain linked to a particular physical activity or pain that occurs following an injury. This pain is therefore a sign of injuries such as broken bones and hairline fractures, or even conditions such as bone tumours.

Nerve origin: this is the case for persistent pain that often travels down the thigh or the whole leg. Linked to a pinched nerve in the lower back, this type of pain indicates sciatica or cruralgia.

Vascular origin: most of the time, this type of pain only affects one leg and is a sign of serious circulatory problems such as phlebitis (an inflamed vein), arterial thrombosis (a blood clot in an artery), or venous insufficiency (heavy legs syndrome).

Finally, leg pain can also be linked to other factors such as diabetes or excessive consumption of alcohol, which can cause nerve in the legs to degenerate and may result in pain or loss of sensation.

Heavy legs syndrome

Many people experience a condition known as “heavy legs”, named as such because those affected by this condition experience swollen legs and the feeling that they are dragging their legs. Heavy legs are therefore characterised by a feeling of heaviness in the legs, which suggests poor blood circulation and can become extremely debilitating. This phenomenon is often linked to venous insufficiency and can be an early warning sign of varicose veins.

Healing leg pain: treatment and prevention

Treating leg pain

Given the wide variety of possible causes of leg pain, your treatment will depend on the doctor’s diagnosis. For example, in the case of acute muscle pain, which heals with time, doctors will most often prescribe rest and elevation of the leg. In the case of venous problems, the doctor will most often prescribe elevation of the leg in conjunction with a course of anti-inflammatory drugs. In the most serious cases such as phlebitis or venous insufficiency, you will need to take anti-coagulants and wear compression stockings, and may even need surgery.

Drug-free pain relief: TENS technology

There are also other solutions that help reduce leg pain, drug-free. This is where OMRON’s range of pain relievers come in using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) to help you to relieve your muscle and joint pain.

HV-F021-ESL

  • 15 Intensity Levels
  • 9 different massage modes
  • Drug-Free Pain Relief

See all TENS machines

There are also some simple measures you can take to help you relieve leg pain. It’s a good idea to elevate the painful leg, allow it to rest, apply ice and then bandage the leg as a compress for the pain.

Preventing leg pain

When it comes to preventing leg pain, walking regularly is especially helpful, as this will ensure good blood circulation. Applying something cold also prevents heavy legs because this narrows the veins, allowing the blood to circulate more easily. Similarly, you should avoid sitting down for too long, especially during flights, when we suggest wearing compression stockings. We also recommend that you strengthen your abdominal muscles, which will reduce the risk of getting trapped nerves in your lower back. Finally, it’s very important to drink enough water.


References:

Blaize, A. (2018). Sore legs: all you need to do. Retrieved from www.e-sante.fr/mal-jambes-tout-ce-qu-il-ne-faut-pas-faire/actualite/1033

PasseportSanté. (2015). Leg pain. Retrieved from www.passeportsante.net/fr/Maux/Symptomes/Fiche.aspx?doc=douleurs-jambes-symptome


90,000 Swelling of the legs, cramps, pain in the legs or what are the legs buzzing about?

Restless legs syndrome

Legs “buzz” … .. Severity and aching pain in the legs, transient swelling of the legs, cramps in the calf muscles, a burning sensation and numbness in the legs and feet – all these are signs of tired legs syndrome. Why do my legs swell? What to do to prevent the development of the disease and determine its causes in time? These questions cannot be answered unequivocally. Most often, representatives of the fair sex face these problems, but at first they do not attach much importance to them, attributing them to ordinary fatigue.At work all day on my feet, with bags and bags from the store, in the evening – heels, and at home at the post at the stove – all this is the usual rhythm of life for most women. However, over time, the symptoms progress, becoming more painful and painful. There are many cases where minor pain in the leg below the knee has developed into a serious problem over time. Restless legs syndrome occurs in 75% of women after age 30 and in 25% of men after age 40. There are several reasons for the development of this condition, but the main one is the discrepancy between the venous and lymphatic outflow and the loads on the legs.Therefore, in some cases, this condition may be the first harbinger of the onset of venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Another reason associated with the occurrence of this syndrome is congenital or acquired flat feet. The acquired flattening of the foot develops as a result of static loads on the leg, excess weight, and prolonged standing. Normally, the arch of the foot is designed to cushion the load on the leg. In the case of flat feet, the normal work of the tendons and muscles of the lower leg and foot is disrupted, which leads to changes in the work of the veins of the lower leg, which are located in the thickness of these muscles, while the veins will work with significant overload.In the veins of the leg, pressure increases, venous stasis develops, metabolic products are absorbed and cause pain. Due to high pressure, the valves of the connective veins are destroyed, varicose veins fuss, cramps appear in the calf muscles – a “vicious circle”. That is why you cannot ignore the syndrome of restless legs, as it can be the first signal of the development of varicose veins. If the patient has already developed varicose veins, the main methods of treatment are reduced to various options surgical intervention . At the stage of developing varicose veins, prevention, correction by conservative or minimally invasive methods is possible, that is, the notorious “treatment of varicose veins without surgery.” In this situation, it will be effective and help prevent the development of the disease. What are the main signs of restless legs syndrome?

  • heaviness and pain in the legs (in the legs, feet)
  • burning sensation, crawling creeps
  • cramps or pulling pain in the calves
  • aching pain in the muscles and joints of the legs
  • burning sensation in toes or feet
  • buzzing of the legs – numbness of the legs
  • swelling of the legs.

If you are familiar with these signs, the first thing to do is diagnostics, that is, to examine the veins of the legs using the method ultrasonic duplex scanning . Such an examination will help to find out how pronounced the changes in blood flow through the veins are, and what type of correction you need. Since changes in veins at this stage are usually minimal, only an experienced ultrasound specialist can recognize and evaluate them. Ideally, if the ultrasound specialist is also a vascular surgeon, you will be immediately given informed advice.In addition, you need to be examined for flat feet. Such diagnostics is carried out by the methods of plantography (obtaining a graphic “imprint” of the plantar surface of the foot), planotoscopy (visual express diagnostics of the condition of the arches of the foot) or plantoscanning (obtaining an image of the patient’s feet on the monitor screen by scanning). In the case of revealed flat feet, it is necessary to take measures to correct it.

In some cases, you may be recommended to consult a neuropathologist, vertebrologist, as often pain in the lower extremities can be caused by the pathology of the lumbar spine.

In the early stages of Restless Legs Syndrome, treatment focuses on eliminating venous and lymphatic congestion and correcting flat feet to break the vicious circle. First of all, you need to think about comfortable clothes and shoes. If possible, avoid wearing tight, tight, tight-fitting trousers – they can squeeze the venous and lymphatic vessels, especially in the area of ​​natural folds (under the knee, groin fold, etc.). The heel should be about 3-4 cm, especially if you have to spend the whole day on your feet.Try not to get used to sitting cross-legged. If at the end of the day there is such an opportunity, lie down for 15-30 minutes. on the back with the legs raised up, which will improve blood flow, help relieve the feeling of heaviness. Try to control your body weight. Overweight significantly increases the load on the bones of the foot, muscles, ligaments, blood vessels of the legs, which leads to the development of lymphovenous insufficiency. It is necessary to monitor the water-salt balance. Excessive use of salty foods leads to excess fluid retention and edema.Insufficient flow of fluid into the body can lead to thickening of the blood and cause blood clots in the veins. Don’t forget to walk! It is much more useful for your legs to walk than to stand or sit, because when you walk, the muscles of your legs contract, “squeezing out” stagnant blood. Therefore, if you are an office worker, do not forget every 40-50 minutes. get up from the computer and walk at least through the office. Swimming is very beneficial for the legs. This type of physical activity optimally combines all the positive effects on the lower extremities and is recommended for various venous diseases. Exercises for the legs that you can do yourself:

  • In a standing position “shift from foot to foot”
  • In a sitting or lying position, move your feet, simulating pressing on the pedals
  • In a sitting position, raise small objects with your feet from the floor;

In addition, it is useful to massage the feet, walk barefoot more often. Of the therapeutic procedures, the use of compression hosiery, the wearing of individual orthopedic insoles, and pneumopressotherapy are effective. Wearing compression hosiery helps to reduce swelling of the lower extremity and fluid retention in the legs, increases the efficiency of the lower leg muscles in pumping venous blood and, thus, reduces stagnation of blood and lymph. Compression knitwear has an undeniable advantage over elastic bandages, both due to the comfort of wearing and due to clearly graduated compression. You need to know that the therapeutic effect of wearing compression hosiery depends on the careful selection of its size and degree of compression.Ideally, jersey should be individually selected, and its selection should be preceded by taking measurements from the leg. The effectiveness of elastic compression increases when it is prescribed in combination with medications – venotonics. Pneumopressotherapy is a method of apparatus physiotherapy, which is a method of mechanical action on the tissues of the lower extremities, as a result of which venous blood is displaced from muscle “pockets” where it stagnates, as well as excess extracellular fluid. This is a kind of “squeezing massage”, performed not manually, but with the help of special equipment, which makes it possible to dose the effects depending on the density and permeability of tissues. Only one such procedure replaces 20-30 manual massage sessions. In addition to the therapeutic effect on venous and lymphatic vessels, pneumopressotherapy also has a positive effect from the point of view of cosmetology, helping to fight cellulite, eliminate skin flabbiness, making it more elastic. Electromyostimulation is a procedure in which a robot is used to stimulate the muscles of the legs.The device causes rhythmic muscle contractions, during which stagnant blood is “squeezed out” of the muscles. Thus, the venous and lymphatic outflow from the soft tissues is improved. This procedure can be used both in combination with pneumopressotherapy and elastic compression, and in case of difficulties with wearing compression hosiery (very full legs, changes in the skin, hot season, etc.). Correction of flat feet. The most effective method is orthopedic insoles. It is especially important to wear shoes with insoles if the work is connected with the forced long stay on the feet.Ideally, insoles should be custom made and subsequently adjusted as needed. Correctly performed flat feet correction will help you not only with the syndrome of tired legs, but also with pain in the knee and hip joints, lumbar spine.

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90,000 Symptoms, diagnosis and prevention of varicose veins

Varicose veins are characterized by changes in the wall of venous vessels, leading to pain and a feeling of heaviness in the legs, edema and other unpleasant symptoms. For the timely detection of the disease and the selection of treatment – contact our private medical center . We have extensive positive experience in the treatment of varicose veins and the prevention of its complications.

CONTENTS OF ARTICLE

What is varicose veins

Varicose veins, or varicose veins, is a lesion of the veins of the lower extremities, in which the work of their valve apparatus is disrupted.The pathology progresses for a long time without symptoms, but gradually the patient develops swollen saphenous veins that form nodes, heaviness in the legs and other complaints appear.

The progression of varicose veins leads to the development of venous insufficiency, which is characterized by edema, muscle cramps and trophic ulcers. As a rule, the first signs of the disease appear after 25-30 years, but varicose veins are most common in people of mature and old age.

Causes of varicose veins

There is no single reason for the development of the disease. Phlebologists believe that changes in the veins are associated with several factors:

  • heredity, genetic predisposition due to the weakness of the connective tissue of the walls of the veins;
  • 90,019 situations leading to an increase in circulating blood volume and compression of venous vessels, such as obesity and pregnancy;

  • lifestyle and nutritional habits. In people forced to stand or sit for a long time, as well as using corsets and tight clothing, venous outflow is disturbed, provoking the development of pathology;
  • hormonal disorders and the use of hormonal drugs, for example, contraceptives, etc.

To determine the causes of the development of pathology, our specialists always carry out a comprehensive examination of patients. This allows you to identify risk factors and eliminate them.

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Types of varicose veins

Several classifications are used for the selection of treatment. This is necessary for phlebologists who diagnose and prescribe therapy. Most often in Russia, the stage of development of pathology is distinguished, on which the symptoms depend:

  • the period of compensation, in which the patient does not make complaints, however, during a medical examination, varicose veins in one or both legs are revealed;
  • stage of subcompensation, when there are complaints of a feeling of heaviness in the legs, sensory disturbances and cramps at night.By the end of the day, slight swelling of the feet and ankles is possible, which disappear by themselves in the morning. On examination, varicose veins are pronounced;
  • stage of decompensation – dystrophic lesions of the skin with its dryness, the formation of dermatitis and eczema. Patients feel itchy skin. Hyperpigmentation of the skin on the legs is possible.

In the absence of treatment, the symptomatology progresses – the patient may develop trophic ulcers, which are difficult to cure due to circulatory disorders. It is very important that treatment begins at the initial stages of the development of pathology, when therapy is most effective.

Diagnosis of the disease

At the MedAstrum clinic we use an integrated approach to examining patients. It all starts with a consultation with a phlebologist. The specialist talks with the patient, learns about the complaints he has and how long ago they appeared. In a conversation, it is important to find out the risk factors for the development of varicose veins – without their elimination, treatment is ineffective.

After that, an external examination is carried out.Varicose veins are characterized by a specific enlargement of the veins in the feet, legs and thighs, which can form varicose veins. When palpated, the vessels do not collapse and are felt as separate strands.

To confirm the diagnosis, instrumental diagnostics are carried out – USDG of the veins of the lower extremities, duplex angioscanning, which can be carried out in our clinic. Thanks to this stage, the phlebologist is able to assess the state of the venous vessels and identify the zones of pathological disorders for their subsequent therapy.

Shestakov Alexey Leonidovich

Doctor of Medical Sciences, doctor of the highest qualification category

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Zhukovets Veronika Vyacheslavovna

surgeon-phlebologist, candidate of medical sciences, member of the Association of phlebologists of Russia

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Treatment and prevention

After a appointment with a phlebologist and carrying out diagnostic measures, treatment is prescribed.There are three main treatment approaches for varicose veins:

  • conservative methods in the form of physiotherapy exercises, elastic compression (special knitwear, bandages), taking medications (phlebotonics, etc.). These funds are most effective at the initial stages of the development of pathology, when varicose veins are compensated;
  • Compression sclerotherapy is the most popular method of treating varicose veins. When a special drug is injected into the lumen of the altered vein, the vessel collapses, blood flow stops, and the affected vein disappears.After this intervention, the patient needs to wear compression hosiery for some time (usually 2-3 weeks) to prevent recurrence of the disease. The MedAstrum clinic has introduced modern methods of treating varicose veins, for example, foam-form sclerotherapy, which is highly effective and safe;
  • Surgical methods are based on the use of physical factors. The most popular, effective and less traumatic is the use of a laser.

Prevention of varicose veins is non-specific.Phlebologists give the following recommendations: if you have to sit or stand for a long time, you need to take breaks and move, or just periodically strain your leg muscles; actively engage in aerobic sports, such as swimming in the pool or cycling; avoid weight gain; do not abuse thermal procedures and taking hormonal drugs. It is very important to seek professional medical help at the initial stages of the development of varicose veins, when the treatment is based on conservative methods and avoids complications.

To make an appointment with a phlebologist, call by phone or leave a request on the website. Our specialists will contact you and tell you what needs to be prepared for the consultation. Clinic “MedAstrum” has a great positive experience in the elimination of varicose veins in patients of any age.

Symptoms and prevention of varicose veins

Disease of the veins of the lower extremities in the early stages can be asymptomatic for a long time, which indicates a late visit of patients for medical help.It is only occasionally that minor varicose veins in young women lead them to see a doctor solely for cosmetic reasons. As the disease progresses, fatigue, a feeling of heaviness in the legs, distention, cramps in the calf muscles appear, especially in the evening, and sometimes at night, paresthesia (change in sensitivity). Swelling usually occurs in the evening, especially after prolonged standing, after a night’s rest, the swelling completely disappears. In the future, in addition to edema, a change in the skin may begin, expressed in its dryness, pigmentation (it darkens, acquires a brownish color in the form of spots).Varicose veins can lead to complications: acute thrombophlebitis, varicose veins rupture with bleeding, chronic venous insufficiency with the development of trophic ulcers.
Prevention of varicose veins is necessary even for those who do not yet suffer from this disease. For those who already have the first signs of varicose veins, prevention is necessary to stop or slow down the progression of the disease, to avoid exacerbations and complications.
Varicose veins are a chronic disease prone to relapse, so even after surgery you should not calm down, you need to take preventive measures.
Methods for the prevention of varicose veins:
1. First of all, the prevention of varicose veins is compression therapy (medical elastic stockings, tights and knee-highs). Under the influence of compression hosiery, the veins narrow and the venous valves begin to close again. There is an increase in the speed of blood flow, which reduces blood stagnation.
2. It is necessary to constantly monitor your weight – excess weight provokes further development of the disease and seriously interferes with treatment.
3. Reasonable physical activity without excessive physical exertion. Move more whenever possible. Walk more often (every day you need to walk for at least 30-40 minutes), ride a bike, swim, do a special set of leg exercises at least 2 times a day.
4. Regular hygiene procedures, care. A contrast shower is especially effective: alternating tight jets of warm and cool water.
5. Varicose veins are directly related to the condition of the intestines.Chronic constipation, hemorrhoids can provoke venous diseases, therefore, with varicose veins, you need to take care of proper nutrition. You should follow a diet rich in plant fiber, do not eat spicy foods.
6. Try to avoid heavy physical labor. You should not do weightlifting, lift weights. Avoid prolonged static loads – standing or sitting for a long time in one position is harmful. If you sit all day, put your feet on a special support. The favorite habit of Americans is very useful – to sit “feet on the table.”You also need to periodically (approximately every 1.5-2 hours) get up, perform a simple exercise – stand up 10-15 times, lifting your heels off the floor. This exercise contributes to the contraction of the calf muscles. The muscles work like a pump, helping the veins in the bloodstream. The blood flow increases, due to this, the stagnation of blood in the veins is eliminated. If you stand all day, then every hour for 5-7 minutes, be sure to give your leg muscles a load. First, take a walk. Then rise several times on your toes, lifting your heels off the floor.Do a series of squats.
7. Prolonged exposure to high heels or tight shoes also provokes the development of varicose veins. Heels should not be more than 3-5 cm, and the main criterion when choosing shoes should be, first of all, its convenience and comfort. Try to walk barefoot more at home. Thus, you will regularly stretch your feet. If you have flat feet, use instep supports.
8. Stick to loose-fitting clothing. You should not wear too tight, tight or tight clothing.
9. Choose for recreation places close to our climatic zone. Vessels, veins are very susceptible to changes in air temperature, changes in atmospheric pressure. Therefore, people with varicose veins are not advised to change the climate.
10. After showering or taking a bath, rinse your feet with cold water.
11. If you feel heaviness in your legs in the evening after a working day, you should keep your legs elevated during sleep and rest. This position of the legs facilitates the outflow of venous blood.
12. Do not jerk out of bed immediately after sleep. Prepare your legs and veins for the transition from horizontal to vertical position. A special set of exercises will help with this. Circular movements of the feet, flexion, extension of the feet in the ankle joint forward and backward are especially useful. Then flexion and extension of the legs in the knees, hip joints. Finally, the “bike”. All exercises will take no more than 5-10 minutes. Then you can get up. The same exercises are recommended to be repeated before bedtime.This therapeutic exercise improves blood flow, reduces leg swelling.
In the absence of abnormalities in the circulatory system, the blood pressure on the saphenous veins located in the lower extremities is small. The constant reverse movement of blood from the legs to the heart is carried out using two mechanisms.
One of them is the musculo-venous pump. Its work is extremely simple: tension and contraction of the calf muscles causes compression of the veins, and the blood in them is forced to move higher; relaxation, on the other hand, promotes expansion, so the blood rushes down through them.And in this case, on the way of blood flow there is a second mechanism for ensuring venous outflow – valves.
Venous valves are folds of the inner membranes of veins, the shapes of which outwardly correlate with the shapes of the swallow’s wings. As we already wrote, this mechanism is paired, the valve flaps are located opposite each other. It is they who, dividing the flow of blood into intervalvular segments, promote the blood flow towards the heart and prevent its reverse movement.
The normal operation of the venous valves, that is, their impeccable performance of the function for which they exist, ensures the healthy state of the venous vessels.Deviations from the norm or their failure to fulfill their purpose causes a pathological phenomenon called reflux, when blood moves from the heart and does not meet any obstacles in its path.
In this regard, venous congestion occurs, which prevents the supply of the lower extremities with the necessary oxygen and provokes the onset of symptoms of a disease of the vascular system – varicose veins of the legs.
The development of the disease is caused by several factors:
1. Hereditary predisposition, expressed in congenital weakness of the vascular valves, caused by a defect in connective tissue structures, their absence or underdevelopment. This can explain the fact that varicose veins are inherited, usually from mother to daughter. Varicose veins are one of the diseases with a pronounced hereditary etiology.
2. Difficulty in the outflow of blood from the lower extremities occurs due to prolonged stay on the legs. Therefore, this disease occurs in representatives of such professions as salespeople, surgeons, teachers, hairdressers, waiters. Compression of the veins also occurs during prolonged sitting, when the muscles relax for a long time and completely.This group of persons includes managers, accountants, drivers, office workers, computer technicians, etc. In addition, some people have the bad habit of bending their legs while sitting or raising one of them, which causes the same effect.
3. Activities associated with lifting weights can also provoke the development of the disease (athletes, movers, builders, etc.). Tightening the abdominal muscles increases the pressure in the veins, which naturally causes them to dilate. The possibility of the appearance of varicose veins exists among people who spend all their free time in fitness clubs.
4. In many cases, pregnancy and childbirth can provoke the disease. During pregnancy, the developing fetus gradually compresses the veins of the abdominal cavity, which causes impaired blood flow and increased pressure in the veins of the legs, and changes occurring at the hormonal level cause a decrease in the tone of the venous vessels. During childbirth, intra-abdominal pressure increases sharply, the veins increase in volume, which creates an increased load on the venous apparatus. In this regard, varicose veins are characterized as a female disease.Statistics show that for the first time, problems in the work of the vascular system occur in 30% of women during this period.
5. The development of the disease is possible due to the use of hormonal contraceptives containing female sex hormones.

In the elderly, varicose veins occur most often due to hormonal imbalance, circulatory disorders and age-related changes in the vascular walls.
Other causes include obesity, chronic cough, constipation, and tight clothing and shoes.
If there are several or even one of the listed risk factors, you should consult a specialist. Only a specialist will be able to conduct the necessary research and competently assess your concerns.

Answer 90,000 What are the causes of heaviness in the legs and how to get rid of it

Heavy, buzzing, like cast-iron legs are one of the characteristic signs of physical exhaustion. You may have been so busy that you never sat down all day. Or maybe we ran a cross – longer than ever before.Or we have ridden a bicycle about fifty kilometers. In these cases, the feeling of heaviness in the legs is quite natural .

But if you have not loaded your legs lately, and they still buzz, moreover, regularly, this may be a sign of health problems. Including dangerous ones.

What are the causes of heaviness in the legs

1. Varicose veins

With varicose veins, blood flow in some veins of the legs is disturbed. Blood begins to stagnate in the vessels. And because it has weight, the legs feel heavier.

In addition, a feeling of heaviness can be caused by edema that occurs with varicose veins in the ankles and feet.

As a rule, varicose veins are visible to the naked eye. It manifests itself as lumpy vessels protruding from under the skin. However, at the initial stage of the disease, the veins may not be visible. Heaviness in the legs, which occurs regularly and for no obvious reason, is an early symptom that can lead to developing varicose veins.

2.Chronic venous insufficiency

This is the name of venous disease , in which the outflow of blood from the legs is seriously impaired.

Chronic venous insufficiency is sometimes accompanied by varicose veins. But it doesn’t have to be . The first to suffer are small blood vessels, and a person can notice the disease only by the appearance of heaviness in the legs, swelling, discoloration of the skin: in the affected area, it acquires a bluish-purple hue.

3. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)

This is another condition that is associated with circulatory disorders.With PAD, the lumen of the arteries narrows. For example, due to the fact that atherosclerotic plaques accumulate on their walls.

As a result, the limbs, most often the lower ones, do not receive enough blood, and the muscles do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. A person feels this through regular cramps and heaviness in the legs.

4. Restless legs syndrome

This is the name of the neurological condition , in which a person has the need to constantly move his legs. If this is not done, they will hurt, itch, throb, grow numb, and become heavier.

Restless Legs Syndrome is most often unpleasant – for example, it makes a person unable to get enough sleep – but it is safe. However, in some cases, this condition turns out to be a symptom of serious malfunctions in the body :

5. Peripheral nerve dysfunction (peripheral neuropathy)

It resembles restless legs syndrome: a person continually moves his limbs to get rid of discomfort in them. But with peripheral neuropathy, discomfort, including a feeling of heaviness, usually affects only the feet.

Peripheral nerves can fail due to injury, infection, exposure to toxins, metabolic disorders. Developing diabetes is considered one of the most common causes of this disease.

6. Overweight or obesity

The more you weigh, the more heavily you load your legs when walking. And so they can hum, even if you seem to have walked quite a bit.

In addition, excess weight increases the risk of diseases, which manifest themselves, among other things, with heaviness in the legs.For example, varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency .

7. Pregnancy

Many expectant mothers face a feeling of heaviness in the legs. There are several reasons for this:

  • natural weight gain, especially in late pregnancy;
  • deterioration of blood circulation in the legs, which is caused by pressure on the vessels from the growing uterus;
  • Often Swelling of the legs arising in pregnant women.

What to do if your legs are heavy

It depends on how often the unpleasant sensation occurs. If it appears only from time to time, for example, once a month or less, and disappears after rest – most likely, you do not need to worry.

But if the legs get heavy, swell and get tired all the time, and even more so if additional symptoms occur – numbness, pain, tingling, – it is important to consult a doctor. To begin with, with a therapist or, if you are a woman and pregnant, with a gynecologist watching you.

A physician will conduct an examination, ask about symptoms, lifestyle, past illnesses and injuries, assess height and weight. Perhaps he will ask you to get tested – for example, to find out the level of sugar or cholesterol in the blood.

Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will advise how to get rid of heaviness in the legs. In some cases, only a slight change in lifestyle and habits is enough.

  1. Try to get rid of excess weight, if any.
  2. Move more – walk, swim, ride your bike.First, exercise is important for weight control. And secondly, they improve blood circulation in the legs and help to avoid or reduce blood congestion and swelling.
  3. Avoid strenuous physical activity and do not exercise every day: breaks are needed to allow the muscles to recover.
  4. Limit your salt intake. This will help reduce the swelling.
  5. If you smoke, quit, or at least try to do it less often. Smoking significantly impairs blood circulation , and this can lead to blood stasis and, as a result, a feeling of heaviness in the legs.
  6. Do not sit or stand in one position for too long. Try to do a little warm-up every 20-30 minutes to improve circulation.
  7. Wear compression stockings or knee-highs. They keep the walls of the veins in good shape and thus prevent blood from stagnating in the legs. It is especially important to wear compression stockings or knee-highs if you plan to sit or stand for a long time.
  8. During the day, try to lie down from time to time with a small pillow under your ankles.This will improve the flow of blood and lymph from the legs.

If the problem is more serious, the therapist will issue a referral to a specialized doctor who specializes in the disorders you have identified: surgeon, phlebologist, endocrinologist, neuropathologist, rheumatologist. Further treatment will depend on the diagnosis.

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Diagnostics – VBNK

Varicose veins of the lower extremities (VLBK)

The term “ varicose veins ” comes from lat. varix gen. n. varicis – “swelling”. Synonyms: varicose veins of the lower extremities (varicose veins). This disease has been known since ancient times, mentions of it are found in the Old Testament, ancient Greek and Egyptian evidence. There is a widespread belief that varicose veins are a person’s payback for upright walking. Hippocrates, Avicenna and Galen tried to treat this disease.

Varicose veins are an unusually common disease. According to various authors, one or another of its manifestations occur with a frequency of up to 70% among women and up to 50% among men in developed countries.

For the occurrence of varicose veins, a combination of hereditary and provoking factors is necessary. The main provoking factors include:

– pregnancy and childbirth;

– hormonal disorders, including taking oral contraceptives;

– continuous static loads.



Triggers of pathological changes in the venous wall are venous hypertension and blood stasis. As a result, the inner wall of the vessel (endothelium) is damaged, which triggers a complex of inflammatory changes, which ultimately leads to varicose veins.Inflammatory changes in the endothelium of the venous valves leads to their failure, as a result of which, in an upright position, a reverse flow of blood through the vein (reflux) occurs, which further aggravates venous hypertension and dilatation of the veins located below the incompetent valve.



Symptoms of the disease are very nonspecific and are caused by stagnation of blood and venous vessels. The most frequent first symptoms, sometimes even in the absence of any external changes, are a feeling of heaviness in the legs, rapid fatigue when standing or sitting still, swelling of the legs in the evening after exertion, episodic night cramps.This is the so-called “heavy legs syndrome” – a harbinger of varicose veins.

Other manifestations of the disease are determined by its class (stage). *

1st class – the presence of the so-called spider veins or otherwise, telangiectasias. Sometimes, with this form of the disease, in addition to visible changes in the subcutaneous vessels, the patient no longer bothers anything, but more often there are already certain subjective manifestations of venous stasis.

In this form, as a rule, there is no valve insufficiency of the main saphenous veins, and with it any significant disturbances of venous hemodynamics.
If, according to the ultrasound examination, there is no major vein failure, then surgical treatment is not required. Measures are needed to prevent the progression of chronic venous insufficiency, including taking medications.

At the present stage of medicine, it is quite possible to get rid of spider veins with the help of sclerotherapy and percutaneous laser photocoagulation. With a professional approach, both methods are most often not independent, but complement each other.


2nd class – the appearance of enlargements (phlebectases) of the great veins. In this form, a violation of local venous hemodynamics is already added to purely cosmetic external changes: the blood flow in the dilated veins slows down, up to its complete stop in an upright position, and the damaged inner wall of the vein stimulates the production of blood clotting factors, which, in combination with a slowdown in blood flow, can lead to local thrombosis of the vessel (thrombophlebitis).
Subjective symptoms of venous stasis at this stage may also be absent.

Surgical treatment . The basic principles of the surgical treatment of varicose veins were developed back in the 19th century. It is based on the exclusion of pathologically altered veins from the circulation and the removal of veins with an altered vascular wall. Over time, only the ways of achieving this result change. If earlier this required large incisions, nowadays the operation is performed through barely noticeable skin punctures ( miniflebectomy ), from which no scars remain.An alternative to the removal of the saphenous veins is obliteration with endovenous laser coagulation and compression micro-foam sclerotherapy . Surgical treatment is complemented by supportive care. At this and all subsequent stages of varicose veins, compression hosiery is necessarily prescribed.


3rd class – the appearance of venous edema. The localization of edema is in the area of ​​the ankles and above. Most often, edema appears in the evening, first after prolonged daytime loads, and then every day.By the morning, as a rule, the edema disappears, with the exception of rare neglected cases. The presence of edema of the legs always requires differentiation with a number of diseases, namely with diseases of the urinary and endocrine systems, with heart failure, lymphostasis, etc.

After confirming the diagnosis of varicose veins by ultrasound, confirming the normal functioning of the deep veins of the lower extremities and excluding other causes of edema syndrome, surgical treatment is indicated .The volume and type of intervention is determined according to the data of ultrasound diagnostics. Surgical treatment is necessarily complemented by supportive therapy.


4th grade – stage of venous eczema. At this stage, due to chronic venous stasis and tissue inflammation, irreversible changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue (lipodermatosclerosis) are already formed. The subcutaneous tissue is replaced by a very dense connective (scar) tissue, skin pigmentation appears.The typical localization of venous eczema is the inner surface of the lower leg. In advanced cases, without surgical treatment (eliminating the cause of venous hypertension), the process spreads to other surfaces of the lower leg. In the future, weeping surfaces and trophic ulcers form on the affected skin areas.

After confirmation of the diagnosis of varicose veins according to ultrasound data, confirmation of the normal functioning of the deep veins of the lower extremities, surgical treatment is indicated.The volume and type of intervention is determined according to the data of ultrasound diagnostics. Surgical treatment is necessarily complemented by supportive therapy.


5th grade – stage of ulcerative scar. This stage occurs only after successful treatment of the next – sixth stage. After successful surgical treatment and if all recommendations are followed, the trophic ulcer does not recur, however, cicatricial changes in the skin, of course, persist forever. If there are pathological venous discharges according to ultrasound data, surgical treatment is indicated at this stage, and if they were eliminated earlier, supportive therapy.


6th class – trophic ulcer stage. It is a natural outcome of venous eczema in the absence of adequate treatment. If the cause of venous insufficiency is identified according to ultrasound data, it is compulsory to surgical treatment . Moreover, in the presence of a large trophic ulcer, it is often impossible to perform the full scope of surgical treatment in one stage. In such cases, the operation is divided into two stages – the first is done urgently, to partially eliminate venous hypertension, and the second – after the final healing of the trophic ulcer to prevent its recurrence.
Treatment at this stage is complex and lengthy, requiring daily dressings, but it is quite possible to get rid of such advanced venous insufficiency.


* Clinical grades of CVD as defined by the current international CEAP classification. It is not entirely correct to call them stages, since the sequence of their development can be different.
90,000 Causes and treatment of heaviness in the legs

Natural causes that do not require treatment

In most cases, the feeling of heaviness in the legs is not associated with serious health problems.Many people experience these symptoms and are usually caused by:

  • Overweight. Excess weight is always an additional load on the legs. At the same time, adipose tissue affects the work of blood vessels, the volume of fluid in the body increases. Swelling may also occur.
  • Low activity. What causes heaviness in the legs in young people? Usually due to a sedentary lifestyle, computer work. The problem is faced by office workers, drivers, watchmakers.
  • Heat. In hot weather, you don’t want to move, but you have a desire to drink a lot. Due to vasodilatation, there is a strong heaviness in the legs. It is caused by stagnation and disappears with changing weather.
  • Changes in hormonal levels. Pregnant women often experience fatigue and heaviness in their legs. Similarly, this sensation occurs in older women during menopause.
  • The action of drugs. Diuretics and hormonal drugs give this effect.

If the cause of the problem appears on this list, then you don’t need to worry too much. It is worth thinking about how to remove heaviness in the legs and improve your condition. If you are overweight, you should think about diet: it is necessary for recovery. Sedentary people are encouraged to find time for sports, exercise, and muscle strengthening.

Severity is a symptom of dangerous diseases

Constant heaviness in the legs may indicate serious health problems. In some cases, the patient may need treatment for the spine and joints.If you do not consult a doctor on time, then complications may appear in the future. At the same time, therapy in the later stages takes longer and does not always lead to the desired result.

One of the main problems that many people face is varicose veins. This is an underestimated disease. Varicose veins can lead to serious complications. The disorder begins with heaviness in the legs below the knee in the afternoon. Edema, cramps and other problems are gradually added to the severity.At an early stage, the patient can be cured by conservative methods, sometimes even prophylactic agents help. In a later stage, urgent surgery may be required.

Other diseases can also cause discomfort in the legs:

  • Arthrosis, arthritis and flat feet;
  • lumbosacral osteochondrosis;
  • kidney and heart diseases.

Lumbosacral osteochondrosis requires treatment of the spine.Usually this disorder is accompanied not only by pain and heaviness in the legs, but also by lower back pain, cramps. In the later stages, problems arise with the sensitivity of the legs, tendon reflexes.

A symptom may also indicate problems with joints affected by arthritis or arthrosis. Such problems are sometimes accompanied by painful sensations, a feeling of stiffness, aches.

Sometimes such symptoms indicate kidney and heart disease. With heart pathologies, heaviness and weakness in the legs is accompanied by additional problems.For example, with heart failure, symmetrical edema is observed. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Edema also occurs with kidney problems. Additionally, such diseases are accompanied by itching and thirst. However, it is impossible to diagnose only by external signs, and in order to do this, you need to undergo a diagnosis in a hospital. Therefore, one cannot do without medical intervention.

Diagnostics for non-specific symptoms

What to do if the legs are heavy? This symptom belongs to the category of nonspecific, therefore, a thorough examination is required. The doctor can listen to the patient’s complaints, conduct an initial diagnosis, but often it is possible to obtain some new information only through analyzes. Feeling heavy can indicate a variety of health problems. To exclude errors in diagnosis, an examination of the whole organism is carried out.

The patient will have to donate blood and urine. Blood sugar tests can reveal diabetes mellitus or prediabetes, which also leads to heaviness in the legs in men and women. Rheumatoid factor is investigated with serological analysis: arthritis may be the cause of the disorder.With a general analysis, the condition of the kidneys is assessed. Biochemical analysis can also tell a lot about the condition of the kidneys. And in the course of such a study, you can identify the level of cholesterol, which affects the state of the blood vessels.

Urinalysis allows you to learn more about the condition of the kidneys. If there is a suspicion of venous pathology, a color duplex scan is performed. More information about the state of blood vessels can be found during contrast angiography. Assessment of the musculoskeletal system is carried out using X-ray.Perhaps the heaviness in the legs when walking occurs due to flat feet – computer plantography will allow you to find out about this.

Heart problems should not be ruled out. ECG, ultrasound, PCG – not all types of studies that can be done to assess the activity of the main body. Also, the diagnosis may require the results of the ankle-brachial index. Indeed, sometimes severity occurs when the lumen of the arteries narrows.

In what order is the research carried out? It depends on the patient, but more often than not, blood and urine tests are done first.If there are no clear indications of kidney disease, arthritis, then a study of the veins and arteries is carried out. The doctor’s task is to gradually narrow the search area and identify the true cause of the disorder. It is possible that during the diagnosis several factors will be detected at once, each of which can lead to corresponding symptoms. In this case, the optimal treatment is selected.

Combination of natural causes and diseases

When diagnosing, it is important for the doctor to understand whether the patient has a serious illness that requires immediate treatment.Therefore, the specialist does not exclude the likelihood of the appearance of heaviness in the joints of the legs due to a sedentary lifestyle, but still prescribes additional diagnostics. This is a reasonable approach, especially considering that being overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, and bad habits can lead to various diseases.

One of the main reasons for heaviness in women’s legs is uncomfortable shoes, especially tight high-heeled shoes. However, uncomfortable shoes can cause vascular problems.Additional diagnostics in this case can prevent the development of a serious illness. Likewise, a sedentary lifestyle and excess weight affect the health of the entire body as a whole. These factors can provoke the development of various disorders, which it is desirable to identify in the early stages.

Heaviness in the legs below the knee may be due to excess weight, but does this mean that the patient urgently needs to recommend an active lifestyle? A sudden transition to sports in this state can lead to even more serious problems – the lower limbs are overweight when overweight.In addition, weakened vessels are susceptible to damage. Strengthening blood vessels, changing the diet, physical therapy can prepare the body for a healthier lifestyle.

How to throw off the shackles from your feet – treatment of diseases

It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of how to treat heaviness in the legs. The choice of treatment methods depends on the disease and accompanying symptoms, the presence of a complication, and the patient’s state of health. For example, we can give a method of treating one of the most common diseases – varicose veins.According to statistics, it occurs in every fourth person, and in some countries the disease affects every second.

Varicose veins are diagnosed in men and women. Treatment of the disease proceeds in the same way as the therapy of chronic venous insufficiency. Conservative methods are used based on the use of a set of medicines:

  • angioprotectors;
  • venotonic drugs;
  • drugs to improve the rheological properties of blood.

Using this complex of medicines, you can significantly improve the patient’s condition. Do not underestimate the importance of antiplatelet drugs: they improve the rheological properties of the blood and reduce the risk of blood clots. The blood thinns, it passes through the vessels better. Blood clots are a dangerous complication that occurs against the background of varicose veins.

An effective remedy are combined type angioprotectors, which strengthen the walls of blood vessels.There are not only medications for oral administration, but also various ointments with a similar effect. However, ointments without drugs for internal use are ineffective. Often people suffering from varicose veins self-medicate and acquire just such remedies that rarely help. Ointment, cream are adjuvants for treatment in complex therapy. Additionally, physiotherapy and compression stockings may be recommended to the patient.

Disease Prevention – How to Avoid Problems

Heaviness in the legs occurs for various reasons, but negative symptoms can be prevented.To do this, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle: give up bad habits, move more, find time for sports, and eat right. It is recommended for prophylaxis to use compression products when playing sports.

A healthy lifestyle can prevent most disorders. Even hormonal problems that arise with age are more tolerated if a person moves a lot and eats right. It is also recommended to monitor your health and regularly undergo preventive examinations with a doctor, monitor the condition of the spine.

People who are at risk of developing various diseases (for example, rheumatism) should be especially careful about their health. Well-being at any age depends on it. Heaviness in the legs does not appear just like that – it occurs for certain reasons.

90,000 Which doctor should I contact with heaviness in the legs

Phlebologists of Moscow – latest reviews

Everything is, in principle, quite high quality, without imposing unnecessary services.Excellent consultation, the spirit of the doctor. Everything is positive and positive. Valentina Khanafievna sent for an ultrasound scan, based on the results, she issued a plan for preventive treatment.

Moderation,

November 19, 2021

The reception went well. Turan Zohrab oglu is a very good doctor, I am pleased with him. He spoke to me very politely, respecting the elderly man. He advised what tests you need to know, prescribed treatment. He explained everything in an accessible language.

Galina,

November 16, 2021

The doctor is constructive, punctual.Andrei Vladimirovich received me promptly, examined me, gave me good advice, prescribed treatment and further examination. This is all that was in his powers. Everything is fine. I was pleased with the quality of the reception. Would apply again.

Moderation,

November 19, 2021

There was nothing superfluous at the reception, everything was on business. Only inspection, results and recommendations. I was completely satisfied with it. The doctor did what was required of him. He explained the information clearly and answered questions. Initially chose the doctor at the lowest price. And Andrey Vladimirovich turned out to be a qualified specialist. Would apply again if necessary.

Ilya,

November 16, 2021

An excellent surgeon.Experienced, competent

Moderation,

20 November 2021

Everything is great, Robert Artavazdovich is wonderful. I did an ultrasound of the veins. All told and showed veins, calmed me down. He also allowed him to be called by name. I needed his advice for the reason that I want to get vaccinated, but I have varicose veins. He approved the vaccination. The reception lasted about 30 minutes. All my questions were answered. As a result of the consultation, I learned what to do before vaccination.

Yuliya,

November 16, 2021

Competent doctor, attentive.At the reception, Valery Viktorovich listened, examined, explained everything correctly, ordered a further examination. As a result, he advised me to follow a diet. I am satisfied. Everything is fine.

Nikita,

November 17, 2021

Gyulayat Bagautdinovna is very good and professional.I liked the welcome. At the reception my question was resolved. In general, at the reception there was an examination, asked about my disease, gave an appointment according to my diagnosis and sent me for tests. The doctor is very courteous, polite, competent. As a result, I calmed down

Natalia,

November 16, 2021

Very attentive and experienced. Recommended.

Moderation,

November 17, 2021

Competent doctor, professional in his field.Creates trust. The reception went well, I liked everything. Valentina Khanafievna explained everything in sufficient detail and drew up a plan of further actions. I have positive impressions. I will definitely recommend this specialist to my friends, if necessary. Most likely, I will undergo an operation.

Zulfiya,

November 17, 2021

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