conservative
Last reviewed 01/2018
The aim is to improve venous return and reduce pressure in varicose superficial veins. It should be considered in:
- patient's with uncomplicated varicosities
- the pregnant, the elderly or the unfit
- patient's who refuse other forms of treatment
Methods include:
- encourage walking
- discourage prolonged sitting or standing
- keep legs elevated when sitting to increase venous return
- lose weight, if appropriate
- wear supporting elastic stockings which compress superficial veins and prevent reflux from deep veins:
- the stockings should extend from the distal metatarsals to just below the knee
- avoid extending to the thigh unless they can be secured by means of a garter
- use carefully because of potential tourniquet effect