How and Why to Elevate Your Legs

If you have varicose veins or are worried about developing them there are some simple ways you can help to improve your vein health. Exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying hydrated are all great ways to stay healthy and keep your blood flowing properly through your veins. Another easy and effective way to improve your vein health is by regularly elevating your legs above your heart. Read on to learn some tips for best results when elevating your legs:

First, lie down on a comfortable surface like a bed or couch. Then, place a pillow or cushion under your legs to elevate them above your heart; there are specially designed memory foam pillows for leg elevation that you can purchase, but a couple of regular bed pillows will work too. Make sure to have your phone, tv remote, or a good book handy to help pass the time because you will want to stay with your legs elevated for at least 15 to 30 minutes. Having a glass of water nearby is also helpful to stay hydrated so your blood can move through your veins more easily. Dehydration can thicken your blood, so staying hydrated is a must. Repeat this process throughout the day as needed.

Now that you know the “how,” let’s discuss the “why”.

• Regularly elevating your legs improves blood flow by reducing pressure on your leg veins. When your blood is flowing properly, issues such as blood clots can be prevented.
• Swelling and discomfort, common symptoms of vein issues, are reduced when your legs are elevated. Gravity is working with you, making it easier for the blood in your legs to flow back to your heart, minimizing swelling and discomfort.
• The Improved blood flow and reduced pressure on the veins in your legs means that varicose veins are less likely to form or worsen.
• Elevating your legs regularly is also a simple and effective way to improve your overall health by keeping your blood flowing properly throughout your entire body. When pressure and swelling are reduced you will feel better, get better sleep, and be more likely to stay active.

So grab your favorite book and a couple of pillows and settle in for healthier, better feeling veins. And if you have any questions or concerns, call Vein Specialist Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical Associates of Cleveland, TN, at (423) 472-5423 or click here to request an appointment online.