Varicose Veins

These veins appear as enlarged, twisted or knot-like cords. They are visible through the skin with a red, blue or purple colour distortion. Varicose veins can occur anywhere in the body, but are more commonly found on the face and legs. A milder type of varicose veins, called spider veins, are smaller than varicose veins and often look like a sunburst or a “spider web.” Often, spider and reticular veins leak and the lymphatic fluids collect in the tissues which can lead to oedema.

The purpose of veins is to push blood back to your heart, and the muscles surrounding them help push the blood along. The veins have valves that open and close, alternating to let the blood through without gravity pulling it back from where it came from. Varicose veins occur due to the valves in the veins don’t function properly, being unable to prevent the backflow. This results in the pooling of the blood in the veins.

Symptoms may include:

• colour changes in the skin
• sores on the legs
• rash
• sensations in the legs, such as a heavy feeling, burning, and/or aching

How can Lymphoedema Drainage help you?

For mild cases of varicose veins, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is recommended. This type of treatment is a specialised massage that is aimed to move lymph fluid into the blood system which aids in circulation and reduces the progression of the disease. In addition to MLD, we suggest wearing compression garments in day-to-day life as it will help reduce any inflammation, swelling, pain, tightness and heaviness in the legs. This however, is only for mild cases of varicose veins. Anyone suffering from varicose veins that cause broken skin, ulceration, or who are experiencing pain should seek medical treatment. Lymphatic Care can assist with this as our team are also medically trained to treat wound care.