Symptoms of Vein Disease: Leg Cramping
While leg cramps can occur from physical exertion and various muscle or nerve conditions, they are also a symptom of varicose veins.
Why Do Varicose Veins Cause Leg Cramps?
Genetics, lifestyle and certain health conditions can affect how the vein valves function. When performing properly, these valves help blood circulate through the body but as they become less efficient, blood starts to pool in the legs. If blood is not pumping back to the heart, the veins in your legs can develop a purple, swollen and gnarled appearance.
Varicose veins can apply pressure to adjacent nerves or muscle fibers, resulting in cramps. Varicose veins can also cause nighttime discomfort, heavy or fatigued legs, and itching.
What Does Leg Cramping Feel Like?
Standing for several hours a day or sedentary living can worsen leg cramps. With varicose vein-related cramping, the muscle contraction may last for several minutes and the tension is not released through walking or massaging.
Lifestyle Changes and Vein Treatment
If varicose veins are behind your leg cramps, you may be steered toward certain lifestyle changes to see if they make a difference, including:
- Elevating your legs to encourage blood flow back to the heart.
- Taking breaks to stretch your legs and changing your sitting or standing position.
- Replacing your footwear with comfortable, well-fitting shoes without a heel.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to support blood flow.
- Getting more aerobic exercise, such as walking, yoga, cycling or swimming.
- Applying heat to manage pain and muscle spasms.
- Staying hydrated, while minimizing caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Including more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet, and reducing salt.
- Wearing compression socks to improve circulation.
We specialize in a variety of varicose vein treatment methods, including radiofrequency, sclerotherapy and Varithena®. To learn more, schedule a consultation today.